For Chief of Naval Staff [1] only from Naval Attache. [2] With
reference to your telegram No. 336. [3]

(1) Summary of United Kingdom delegation's instructions.

Begins.

(A) Conversations to be based on hypothesis of war between
Germany, Italy, Japan and British Empire, present allies, United
States. Hypothesis is without prejudice to any developments in the
political situation and implies no political commitments.

(B) Conversations to be conducted in spirit of complete frankness.

(C) Object to co-ordinate on broad lines plan for employment of
forces of associated powers in above hypothesis.

(D) Discussion will be within framework of general strategic
policy of Chiefs of Staff Any agreement reached will not have any
binding effect until confirmed by His Majesty's Government.

(E) His Majesty's Government advocated following strategic
policy:-

(a) European theatre of war vital theatre where decision must
first be sought.

(b) General policy should therefore be to defeat the Germans and
Italians first and then deal with Japan.

(c) Security of Far Eastern position including Australia and New
Zealand is essential to our strategy. Retention of Singapore as a
key to the defence of these interests must be assured. End of
summary.

Please repeat to Chief New Zealand Naval Staff. [4]

(2) Appreciate the desirability of the results of staff
conversations here being available prior to the Singapore
conversations beginning February 22nd and every endeavour will be
made to give as much information regarding progress as is
possible. I should make it clear however that it is most unlikely
that discussions will have reached definite conclusions in time.

(3) Your remarks as to the importance of the bases to north and
east of Australian possessions noted especially by United Kingdom
delegation, and this question will be raised with United States
committee.

WATT