Cipher message

Scope and Content

Cipher message no. OZ/633 from Winston Churchill to Auchinleck, reminding him that he was sent special information on 1 July that the enemy, after feinting at his southern flank, intended to attack the centre of his position and thereafter turn northwards to cut off the El Alamein strong point, and that Rommel appears to be trying to do this; asking Auchinleck whether he is receiving these special messages as promptly as possible, how the 8th Armoured Division is progressing, what is the present state and position of the 9th Australian Division, how Rommel's tanks would fare among the canals and irrigation of the Delta, and whether inundations have been made; emphasizing that Egypt should be defended just as stoutly as if it were Kent or Sussex; and announcing an overwhelming vote of confidence by the House of Commons in the Government and the 8th Army. Typescript.