DAKAR. Have made strongest protest that developments and decision
to withdraw were not communicated to you prior to public
announcement. I made every effort yesterday afternoon to obtain
information but up to 7 when I cabled you could ascertain nothing.

Have since ascertained that reports were received in early
afternoon and War Cabinet decision taken at five. This position
due to lack of appreciation of importance of Dominions by the
Prime Minister [1] who issued instructions that information not to
be disclosed except to the War Cabinet, and feebleness of
Secretary of State for the Dominions. [2]

Even now despite several first class hates this morning I cannot
ascertain measure of damage to our ships although I believe H.M.S.

Barham and H.M.S. Resolution both hit in addition to H.M.S.

Cumberland already reported and possibly H.M.S. Renown as a result
of bombing at Gibraltar. Notwithstanding Dominions Office telegram
Z.259 [3], which only sent to cover Secretary of State for
Dominion Affairs' failure to obtain information, I suggest you
cable strong protest emphasizing the necessity of keeping
Dominions informed not only of decisions prior to public
announcement but of facts, e.g. damage to ships.

BRUCE