My telegram No. 407. [1] United Kingdom and United States
conversations between delegations have now commenced. Burrell [2]
is in daily consultation with United Kingdom delegation and is
kept fully informed of all aspects of the conversations.

Canadian representative Commander German R.C.N. retired arrived
today.

British Embassy has communicated with the United Kingdom
Government (a) to confirm that Dominions have been fully informed
of the United Kingdom delegation's instructions and (b) stating
that progress reports of the conversations will be made by this
Legation to Canberra for the information of Australia and New
Zealand and by Canadian Legation to Ottawa.

Need for utmost secrecy cannot be over emphasised particularly in
view of the present tension caused by publicity of the discussions
of the present Lend-Lease Bill and the possible effect on this
vital issue of any leakage of information.

Rear-Admiral Bellairs Head of United Kingdom delegation requests
urgent information regarding (1) proposed despatch of Australian
brigade group to Singapore including the date of arrival (2)
Approximate dates for arrival at Singapore of torpedo bomber
squadron of Australian manufactured Beauforts which it is
understood will be formed within the next few months.

WATT