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The Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs to the Governor-General of New Zealand

My telegram of 26 July.³ It had been hoped as stated that the situation in the United Kingdom would permit the despatch of the second New Zealand brigade, now in this country, to the Middle East before or during the present month.

The New Zealand troops are occupying an important place in the defence of Great Britain which could not at present be filled by other troops without serious dislocation. Therefore, it has been thought very desirable that the proposed move should be postponed for a few weeks. His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom hope that His Majesty's Government in New Zealand appreciate the position, though they are aware that the New Zealand Government attach importance to the concentration in the Middle East at an early date of the New Zealand forces overseas. However, the postponement is intended to be not longer than would permit of the second New Zealand brigade leaving this country towards the end of October.

Expectations are that the Australian troops in the United Kingdom will leave early next month for the Middle East.