[Repeated to] London No. 19, Washington No. 19.

Minister for Foreign Affairs [1] has told the British Ambassador
[2] that reports of movements of troops and what was regard[ed] as
defensive preparations in Australia and elsewhere have resulted in
strong pressure by the Army and Navy to send more troops south
which he is resisting. The Ambassador believes that the Minister
is speaking the truth. These reports have had increased salutary
effect, but I suggest now advisable to restrict further publicity
on such matters and any possible provocative statements as far as
possible.