Thank you for your telegram No. 208 [1], which is receiving urgent
consideration.

So far as U.S.2 is concerned, matter has been considered by the
War Cabinet who felt that, having regard to the latest
information, it was desirable that the convoy should on arrival at
Aden proceed to Suez as originally planned. This would of course
still be subject to reconsideration if circumstances should show
marked change. In that event, the wishes of the Commonwealth
Government as to communication to them have been noted.

As regards the security of convoy against sea attack, the existing
escort may be regarded as adequate in all circumstances. As
regards protection against air action between Aden and Suez,
[there will be] some protection by fighter aircraft from Aden and
again when the convoy would be approaching Suez, but not in
between when the convoy would be out of range of our fighters and
bomber type of aircraft would be unable to protect it adequately.

It was on account of this that Cabinet recommended diversion
should the general political situation indicate immediate risk of
Italian hostility.

The more general questions raised in the latter part of your
telegram are under close consideration here and I shall hope to
telegraph further as soon as possible.