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The Deputy Prime Minister to Admiral Halsey

Your prompt attention to the request contained in my message dated 4 December is warmly appreciated and we are most relieved to learn from advice received from comgensopac that firm transport arrangements are in hand.

The meat-killing and cool storage situation in New Zealand is extremely critical and every day is of value in ensuring the maximum page 431 meat for freezing. The arrival of the men from Tonga and Fiji, most of whom will be directed to freezing work, is essential if a serious reduction in the quantity of valuable foodstuffs is to be avoided.