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11.
The training of the 4th Division at Inverary has already had to be postponed owing to the necessary craft being held for operations.
Future Availability.
12.
It is understood that such craft as are available in this country have been earmarked for many months past for a series of possible operations, and that this is likely to continue.
13.
I also understand that, in the course of the winter, few craft will become available for Home Waters out of new productions.
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If such craft as there are continue to be held for current or projected operations and if none are to become available from new production, then it follows that little headway can be made with the training of troops in Home Forces in minor operations; with the conduct of such mincr operations in accordance with the terms of my directive; and with the preparation of formations in Home Forces for larger operations.
15.
The ability of the Army in this country to intervene on any scale on the continent is dependent, among many other factors, on the necessary training. Little progress has so far been possible as the only trained forces and practically all the craft have remained locked up for possible operations. It is felt that only operations of the very greatest importance should be allowed so to restrict the future usefulness of the Army as a whole.
16.
These considerations have no doubt been taken into account when, from time to time, craft are earmarked and held for possible operations, and it is, of course, for the Chiefs of Staff to decide whether such operations must take precedence over training. I feel bound to record, however, that if the present restrictions continue, the ability of Home Forces to undertake active operations will be correspondingly ineffective.
26th November, 1941.
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