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The Governor-General of New Zealand to the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs

General Freyberg has advised His Majesty's Government in New Zealand that there is every likelihood of the New Zealand Division concentrating in Egypt early next year. The Government are greatly concerned regarding the lack of equipment for certain units, namely, the Divisional Cavalry Regiment and the newly-formed Divisional Reconnaissance Unit.

Representations have been made by General Freyberg to the War Office, supported by General Wavell, for the provision of twenty-eight light tanks for the Divisional Cavalry; if possible, tanks equipped with 2-pounders, or light tanks, tracked, with 15-millimetre guns¹; failing either, cruiser tanks; also signal equipment and spares for armoured fighting vehicles. Equipment is also required for the Reconnaissance Unit, the establishment of which is at present under consideration by the War Office.

His Majesty's Government in New Zealand consider it important that this equipment should be made available as early as possible, and they would greatly appreciate it being issued in time to accompany the Second Echelon to the Middle East.