There has been nothing during the last few days beyond what the
Dominions Office sending plus the views I have already expressed.

I have been pressing for discussions with a view to preparation of
appreciation referred to in my telegram 302 [1] but owing to
pressure of general situation and debate in the House of Commons
[2] have been unable to make progress.

Reference debate, opinion here has been hardening since the Prime
Minister's statement last Thursday. [3] The Government and
particularly the Prime Minister in extremely difficult position
and while the Government will probably have substantial majority
in division which now challenged I feel the possibility of
dramatic political developments in future cannot be eliminated.

Norway. Notwithstanding better reports today as to prospects of
capturing Narvik in the near future my doubts and anxieties
already conveyed persist.

Netherlands. Latest reports discount the probability of early
attack but disquieting reports are being received as to likelihood
of move in South-East Europe.

Italy. Latest reports confirm that immediate action unlikely and
more reassuring information as to the Spanish attitude has been
received from the Ambassador at Madrid. [4]

BRUCE