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(7)
Conclusions.
31. The battle is not yet won, but we have regained tactical initiative and forced the enemy to withdraw in a state of considerable disorganisation. Tobruk had been relieved and, but for Bardia and the two isolated strong points in the frontier area, all the ground east of the line Tobruk-El Gobi has been cleared of the enemy.
Far East.
Malaya.
32. On the 8th December the enemy made scattered landings in the Kota Bahru area (N.E. Malaya) and infiltrated rapidly towards Kota Bahru aerodrome, against opposition from land and air forces. By nightfall 10th December the 8th Indian Infantry Brigade in this area had been compelled to fall back to a position 10 miles south of Kota Bahru, after destroying the aerodrome. Reinforcements of one battalion and one field battery arrived on the 10th December. Enemy forces in this area are now estimated at one division.
During the night 9th/10th December an enemy landing from one transport was unsuccessfully attempted at Kuantan on the east coast. One battalion has been sent to reinforce the 22nd Indian Infantry Brigade, which is holding the Kuantan aréa.
33. Simultaneously enemy landings estimated at two divisions took place. at Singora, Patani and Nakawn Sri Tamarat in South Thailand. These divisions moved southwards across the Isthmus against the 11th Indian Division, which is holding the Kedah Perlis frontier area (N.W. Malaya). Contact was established just across the Thai border. Our troops, after inflicting casualties, are now with- drawing to prepared positions.
Sarawak.
34.
The Miri oilfield denial scheme has been completed.
Hong Kong.
35. On the 8th December the Japanese crossed the International Boundary on broad front and our troops withdrew towards the inner (Gin Drinkers) line according to plan. All demolitions were successfully carried out.
The enemy advanced in two formations along the Tai Po and Castle Peak roads. They have succeeded in capturing a redoubt slightly in advance of the inner defences. It is feared that a British platoon have become casualties. The enemy suffered losses in his advance down Castle Peak road.
The position appears to be consolidated for the time being with our troops. entrenched in the inner defences on the mainland.
Intelligence.
Far East.
36. It is possible that the Japanese strategical object is to seize the American Islands in the Pacific, including Oaho, on which is the American base of Pearl Harbour. These attacks may be designed to ensure freedom of movement for the main military_operations which are taking place in the area Thailand- Philippines-Borneo-Malaya.
37. With regard to Russia, there are reliable indications that Japan wishes to maintain a correct neutrality, for it would not be in her interest to become involved in the North whilst her operations in the South are in progress.
38. Japan will probably attempt to keep her campaign in China as quiet as possible, but her interest in cutting the Burma Road must not be forgotten. It does not seem likely, however, that the latter operation will be undertaken until she has achieved her strategic object in the South.
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05 00 7OM.M
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