Cablegram Johcu 33 CANBERRA, 29 May 1942
MOST IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET
I have received from Dr. Evatt [1] a lengthy report on the results
of his mission to London.
express our warmest thanks for your assurances of support, for the
instructions issued to the representatives of the Chiefs of Staff
to support the requisitions of MacArthur [2] and the
representations of the Australian Government, and for the
practical assistance you are giving in the matter of equipment. In
particular, we are most grateful for the provision of a wing of
three Spitfire squadrons, which Dr. Evatt has told me was your own
conception. They will be a great contribution to the security of
our country and will, we hope, have a demoralizing effect on the
Japanese Air Force.
3. The inclusion of an R.A.F. squadron is a magnificent gesture on
your part, and I am confident that this practical manifestation of
support will do much to encourage the Australian people in their
inflexible determination to fight till victory is won.
4. I shall take an opportunity when Parliament reassembles next
week to express in general terms the Government's appreciation of
the help you have given to its representative in London. [3]
CURTIN
[AA:MP1217, BOX 581, EXCHANGE OF CABLEGRAMS BETWEEN MR CHURCHILL
AND MR CURTIN AFTER OUTBREAK OF WAR WITH JAPAN]
1 Minister for External Affairs, to whom this cablegram was
repeated as no. PM77 (see copy in Flinders University Library:
Evatt Papers, Cables to and from Dr Evatt, March-May 1942). For
Evatt's report see Documents 500-2.
2 Allied Supreme Commander in the South-West Pacific Area.
3 Churchill replied on 30 May: 'Evatt's visit has been a great
success and he has made many friends over here. I feel I shall
have another friend in Australia. Evatt has also repeatedly
assured me of your good will. This will be a great help in the
many difficulties we have to face together.' See cablegram Winch
23 (AA:A3195, 1942, 1.21243).
[2.] On behalf of the Government and people of Australia I would
