Your cablegram of 15th May, 151. [1]

His Majesty's Government in the Commonwealth of Australia still
has doubts as to the wisdom of diverting U.S.3 to the United
Kingdom and before agreeing to this course, which would mean the
splitting of our forces, would appreciate early advice of the
possibility of completing the training of troops in the North West
of India.

If your estimate in cablegram 138 of 4th May [2] is borne out that
Red Sea route can be reconstituted within the first three months
of war with Italy, training could be carried on during this time
and there would appear to be no difficulty in re-establishing the
Division when the Red Sea is cleared.

Would you therefore please advise us of the capacity of India to
accommodate, train and equip these troops and whether such a
course holds any advantages in the release of British troops in
India for service other theatres.

Also, please furnish your views on alternative of training in
South Africa if the Government of that Dominion should be willing
for troops to embark [sic] there.

This cablegram has been repeated to New Zealand and South Africa.

[3]