The Dutch in the Far East
The Netherlands East Indies have set an example to the Allies in preparedness for the new war, and in swiftness of action as soon as it began. For six months and more they have been acutely alive to the necessity of putting their defences on a full
war-basis, and since enemy attacks started they have been effec- tive in defensive and offensive operations, and have taken a heavy toll of Japanese ships wherever their submarines or pilots could reach them. They have operated off their own coasts, and also off the Philippines, British Borneo, Malaya and other Allied territories, and have sent important naval and air reinforce- ments to Singapore. Reports from Singapore and Batavia indi- cate that the Dutch authorities are pressing for closer co-operation between the Allied forces and for a unified strategy ; and it appears that they have been stressing the importance of extensive Allied use of the Dutch islands, and in particular of the naval base of Soerabaya. It is disturbing to hear that the Dutch Com- mand has often asked for information from the Allies in vain. This is a matter which ought to be looked into without a moment's delay. Up to the present our operations in the Far East have not been distinguished by that effectiveness which might excuse our High Command from neglecting the advice of the only one of the Allies which so far has produced good results against the Japanese. It is essential that all the Allied combatants in the Far East should get closely together, and use their joint forces in a concerted strategy which will envisage attack as well as defence against a formidable and enterprising enemy.
