CAB80-20 — Page 276

Page 276

7

MILITARY SITUATION.

Italy and Italian Possessions.

23. The lack of progress of the Italian advance beyond Sidi Barrani has given rise to many conjectures. Principal amongst these were the widespread press reports that Marshal Graziani was to be superseded in command. No confirmation of these reports has yet been received. Meanwhile, there has been considerable motor transport activity in the forward and Line of Communication areas consistent with the formation of forward dumps and the strengthening of communications. Ground reconnaissance has also been carried out.

24. Events in Italian East Africa have been limited to engagements between patrols, in which the Italians have sustained the bulk of the casualties. There is no indication of any reduction in strength of the concentrations threatening the Sudan and Kenya.

The Balkan States.

Greece.

25. In spite of numerous rumours as to the imminence of attacks on Greece both from Albania and Bulgaria, it is still uncertain whether Greece will have to face attack on these two fronts. The threat from Albania, however, has not diminished and remains a real one. Reports indicate the possibility that, in the event of a German move into Bulgaria, Turkish and Greek collaboration in mutual defence will be assured. The determination of the Greek King and Government to resist invasion is still reported as firm. It is to be questioned, however, whether the morale of the Army and civilian population would for long stand up to serious air attacks on Athens, Salonica and other principal towns.

Yugoslavia.

26. Various reports have been received of demands by Germany for the passage of troops and material through Yugoslavia, but there is reliable evidence that any such overtures have so far met with refusal. On the other hand, there is little evidence of any decrease of Axis pressure or of the Government's apparent subservience in the face of it. It seems that the Government hopes to avoid a crisis until winter, when invasion will be difficult. Meanwhile, there are 700,000 men under arms to deter or resist the invader.

Middle East.

Egypt, Sudan and East Africa.

27. There has been no change in the operational situation during the week.

28. A convoy has arrived at Port Suez, consisting of--

For Egypt-

One brigade group and ancillary units.

For Sudan—

One motor cavalry regt.

One mountain battery and ancillary units.

4,000 Australian reinforcements and the first echelon of the South African 2nd contingent have also arrived.

[21835]

Page 276

C

242

Page 276

Page 276