The Prime Minister, naturally on the defensive, was less sensitive
to criticism and made a brilliant defence of Medi- terranean strategy. Without describing tactical operations in detail he made clear the many difficulties facing us in trying to supply our forces in the Near East. Speed of transport is obviously a vital factor. He agreed with Mr. Hore-Belisha that the broadcasts were unfortunate and promised to look into that particular matter. He spoke of the inevitable risks of battle, he admitted that this risk was well worth taking. We had, as it were, lost a salient but we were taking a heavy toll of the enemy's merchant tonnage. It was good to hear the names of famous regiments mentioned at last and proper proportion kept of the toll of Imperial losses. Nevertheless, everyone knows we have suffered a defeat and the House and country needed frank discussion and solid reassurance that every possible lesson will be quickly learned.
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