We have again been embarrassed by a premature announcement by the
B.B.C. this morning of the arrival of R.A.A.F. Squadrons at
Singapore and the press here have cablegrams from Singapore giving
details of the R.A.A.F. Squadrons.

It will be recalled from cablegram 358 of 8th July to the
Dominions Office [1] that it was considered most important that no
publicity be given in the United Kingdom or elsewhere of the
arrival of R.A.A.F. aircraft and personnel in Singapore. Recently
the Department of Air made an enquiry through the Air Liaison
Officer, London [2], as to the views of the Air Ministry on the
release of the information and it was stated there were no
objections provided it was made in a form to safeguard Japanese
susceptibilities. The subject was under consideration when
information of the release was received.

As this is the eighth complaint which we have had to make
regarding action by the B.B.C., it is desired that you press the
United Kingdom Government for a satisfactory arrangement which
will safeguard us against these recurring embarrassments.

MENZIES