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61.19
(THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT.)
SECRET.
All-
It is requested that special care may be taken to
ensure the secrecy of this document.
C.0.S.(40)477(J.P.)
Also Paper No. J.P. 40) 254.
20th June,' 1940.
COPY NO. 22
WAR CABINE T.
CHIEFS OF STAFF COMMITTEE.
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ICELAND: GARRISON AND DEFENCES.
Report by the Joint Planning Sub-Committee.
On the 11th June the Chief of the Naval Staff drew attention (Paper No. C.0.S.(40)450) to the great importance of Iceland in present circumstances, and, in view of this, the Joint Planning Sub-Committee were instructed to re- examine the strength of the garrison. Pending the receipt of an appreciation from the Military Commander, we submitted an interim report (Paper No. C.0.S.(40)468(J.P.)). We have since received a revised estimate of requirements from the Military Commander, and now submit a final report.
Strategic Importance.
2.
Our objects in going to Iceland were to present the enemy from establishing bases for light naval forces and aircraft in Iceland, and to establish an advanced base for units of the fleet and ships and aircraft employed on reconnaissance duties.
Since our original appreciation was written the Germans have extended their control over Norway, Italy has entered the war, France has collapsed and there is a distinct possibility of Spain joining our enemies. The effect of our control of sea communications on the Faroes- Iceland-Greenland line, and, if Iceland were to fall into German hands, our ability to exercise economic pressure would be prejudiced. At the same time, Germany's ability to inferfere with our own trade would be increased. short, we regard the retention of Iceland as essential.
In
477 (J.P.)
-1
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