Documents Relating to New Zealand's Participation in the Second World War 1939–45: Volume III
110 — The Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs to the Prime Minister of New Zealand
110
The Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs to the Prime Minister of New Zealand
The following is a report prepared for our military advisers on the methods open to Japan and those likely to be adopted:
‘1. Russia's continued neutrality is, for the purpose of the report, assumed.
‘2. Japan's object is to gain complete control and freedom of movement in East Asia by eliminating Allied power in that area. The capture of Singapore and Manila are necessary, and control of the East Indies area providing vital economic resources, particularly oil, would follow.
‘3. Japan's main course of action must therefore be:
(a) |
Denial to us and the Americans with a view to the easiest possible capture of:
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(b) |
Repetition of air attacks on Hawaii to impede the repair of naval units and dockyard. |
‘4. Other operations.
(a) |
Operations which might be carried out simultaneously with or independently of the above:
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(b) |
Developing from the main operations, Japan may attempt the occupation of:
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