Overseas Operations

Further to paragraph 2 (k) of my memorandum S28/15/1G of 3 August with reference to the training of the 3rd Division, I wish to report for the information of War Cabinet that I consider Kiwi ‘A’ (the smallest force) will not be sufficiently well trained to undertake an active role in the forward theatre of operations until it has had a period of at least six weeks' training from date.

Nevertheless, as I stated in the memorandum referred to above, the circumstances might be such, and the emergency so great, as to justify the despatch of the force overseas before the expiration of that period of training.

My views as expressed above are being communicated to Admiral Ghormley's staff, together with a reminder that the whole question of despatch of any force is subject to War Cabinet approval.