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after play a decisive part in the re-occupation of Malta by the Fleet. This would speedily transform the strategic situation in the Mediterranean.
5. Should October pass without invasion, which cannot yet be assumed, we should begin the reinforcement of the Middle East by the Cape route to the utmost extent our shipping permits, sending as arranged the Armoured Units, the Australians and New Zealanders in November, another British Division before Christmas, and, at least 4 more during January, February and March. All this would be in addition to the necessary drafts. Let me know how far your present programme of sailings conforms to this.
6. The time has also come for a further strong reinforcement of the Middle East by Bombers and by Fighters. I should be glad to know how far the Chiefs of the Staff would be prepared to go, observing that, though the risk is very great, so also is the need.
7. Let me see the programme for reinforcing the Mediterranean Fleet during the next six months. It should be possible by the end of the year to send two flotillas of destroyers to the Eastern Mediterranean, and one additional to Gibraltar. If K.G.V. must be kept to watch Bismarck, Nelson or Rodney should go to Alexandria and either Barham or Queen Elizabeth. What cruiser reinforce- ments are contemplated? Will it be possible to send Formidable thither also and when?
8. Agreeably to the dispatch of Divisions to the Middle East, the Home Army and the Home Guard will be developed to fill the gap. A minimum of 12 Mobile Divisions must lie in reserve, apart from the troops on the beaches, at any time.
9. It should be possible also to provide by the end of July a striking Force for amphibious warfare of 6 Divisions, of which 2 should be Armoured. The various alternative plans for the employment of such a Force are being studied.
10 Downing Street, S. W. 1,
October 15, 1940.
S
W. S. C.
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