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If our view is accepted, we would hope that arrangements could be made for the Military Commander with his staff to be flown here as soon as possible; and suitable arrange- ments could be made for their reception.
7.
8
In the meantime, it is considered essential that immediate action is of the highest importance, and I would suggest that the naval Commander-in-Chief should be given full power to treat directly with the French authorities in West Africa on Military and Air as well as Naval matters. He could also pave the way for Military Commander by collating information in regard to the strength and disposition of military forces other British West African colonies if this is not already on record at the War Office.
9.
Since drafting the above I have received your telegram secret No. 190 of 20th June, Both Commander-in-Chief South Atlantic and I attach the greatest importance to naval and military Commanders working closest possible co-operation and we feel strongly that it would be most unwise and inconvenient for me to be at Freetown and the other at Accra. I feel that I cannot emphasise this point too strongly.
10. Grateful if copies of this telegram could be sent to Admiralty and War Office.
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