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11.
(b)
Whether, in the present state of planning, the system
Page 44 command in the Mediterranean should ple equal facogunt
of the requirements of the forces in Europe and the forces
in the Middle East. We think it must.
The question of the nationality of the Allied Naval Commander-in-Chief did not really arise at this stage in the discussions. The Chiefs of Staff founded their case on the merits of the system they proposed. Nevertheless it is our strong view that the command must be held by a British Admiral.
12.
Admiral Fechteler's object in coming to London was to have an exchange of views. There is no doubt that, as a result of the discussions, he now understands the British view, and he will report this to the United States Joint Chiefs of Staff. The next move must come from them. I consider that we should stand firm on this matter. I will report to the Cabinet any further developments that take place. In the meanwhile, no action will be taken in the Mediterranean or elsewhere to compromise the position.
in
Ministry of Defence, S.W.1.
12th MAY, 1952.
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