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ANNEX.
Copy of a Message dated 10th October, 1940, from Commander- in-Chief, South Atlantic, to the Admiralty.
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Naval Cypher X by W/T.
704. Freetown has been visited by French aircraft, Martin Bombers, 7 times during this last 12 days. These have carried out reconnaissance of the harbour though they have generally moved off soon after being fired at. They have also flown low over Wellington and Hastings Aerodromes where there are no defences the number of ships in harbour with A.A. guns varies and may only be VINDICTIVE and ALBATROSS. On shore there are at present 2 4.5 inch, 2 2-pounder pom poms and 1 3" mounted and 6 4.5 being mounted only.
It is undesirable that Freetown shall be exposed to frequent reconnaissance and in view of possibilities in the future it is strongly urged that the A.A. defences on shore shall be completed and increased at an early date including provisions of at least short range weapons at Wellington Aerodrome. Also that the completion of lastings aerodrome and the provision of a Fighter Squadron be hastened and eventually that Bomber aircraft and the necessary accommodation and means of operating these be provided as well.
1837/9.
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