}
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4.
With regard to the sphere of this Command, we think that there is much to be said for the exclusion of Burma. Its main base is India and its only port lies in the Indian Ocean and thus not under the Supreme Command. On the whole, therefore, we think that the balance is against including Burma until the position is stabilised or offensive action in that part of the theatre is possible.
We are strongly of the opinion that the whole of
It is Australia should be included in this Command,
the main base and it would not be advisable to include part of the country only in the Command.
5.
With reference to the staff of the Supreme Commander, we consider that it should be a combined staff of the three Services, and the Allies and Dominions should be represented on it. We note that it is proposed to have an American Deputy Commander-in-Chief. We are agreeable to the Headquarters being at Surabaya.
We do not see that there will be any scope under the new arrangements for either Mr. Duff Cooper and his Defence Council or for General Pownall as Commander-in-Chief Far East.
We do not think that an Acting Commander-in-Chief India is a good solution. There should be a permanent incumbent and the Chief of Imperial General Staff will consider with the Secretary of State for India who should be appointed.
Great George Street, S.W.1.,
29th December, 1941.
(Signed) A.F. BROOKE,
W.R. FREEMAN,
-2-
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V.C.A.S.
H.R. MOORE.
V.C.N.S.
સ
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