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from the East they will be a clear addition to our strength and it will be possible to suggest that they are intended as an earnest of our intention to fulfil our treaty with Iraq.

For these reasons the presence of British forces in Iraq may be necessary to safeguard our military interests, to show that we intend to honour our treaty obligations and to make it clear to the Iraqis that the British Empire is a force with which to reckon. The presence of British troops would encourage our well-wishers and, conversely, have a deterrent effect on the supporters of our enemies.

3.

India is preparing a division for despatch to Iraq when need arises. The move of the first echelon of this force, comprising an infantry brigade and attached troops, to Basra can be completed, provided shipping is available, in thirty days.

4。

There is a danger that even after the arrival of the force there may still be widespread disorder leading to a situation similar to that of the Iraq Rebellion of 1920. In these conditions it would be necessary to reinforce the brigade group, If the latter were in Bagdad, we should be faced with a serious situation and the re would be great difficulty in effecting its relief and pacifying the country. If the force remains at Basra it occupies a bridgehead which can be easily reinforced and from which operations can be initiated to reimpose control and secure the overland route.

5.

Nevertheless the commitment in such conditions may be a heavy one, In the Iraq Rebellion the equivalent of some four divisions was required to restore the situation. In present conditions India could reinforce the brigade group up to the strength of a division, but further forces, which might amount to another one or two divisions, would have to be drawn from elsewhere,

6.

In spite of the danger of entailing a growing commitment, it may be that the time has now come to move forces from India into Iraq. Action now may prevent a serious situation; if we do nothing we may be faced with the need of occupying the country in strength later on.

7.

It is suggested that the Chiefs of Staff consider the question of the despatch of a brigade group as soon as possible from India to Basra,

War Office.

(Signed) J.G. DILL.

Richmond Terrace, S.W. 1.

26TH JUNE, 1940.

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