Post by Diarist on Dec 25, 2016 17:22:11 GMT 1
John Gort wasn't too enthusiastic about being a member of the 'Germany-Group' but we decided to accept together. We telephoned Winston before leaving Saffron Walden for Chequers. I was pleased to hear that John Simon would also be joining us. The bad news is that the meetings will be held at Versailles Palace, SW of Paris. I must admit though that it is an appropriate setting. Upon arriving at Chequers we agreed to separately prepare a document then compare notes at Versailles. Also that our Belgian, Dutch, Polish and Czechoslovakian colleagues at TRADOC present their input. Winston got his Franco-TRADOC commission. The French would include General Huntziger who is currently GOC of French forces in the French Mandates of Syria and Lebanon. We could then separately discuss the Golan issue. Very considerate of PM Daladier and an excellent idea.
I also had an opportunity to talk with Louis about a new Naval Doctrine and told him about the meeting with Duff Cooper and Admiral Royle at MCD. We are both full of ideas so the Admiralty will definitely be in for a surprise tomorrow afternoon. Two more good things to report. PM Daladier personally supports our Hurricane offer but will receive opposition at home. We'll have to sweeten the offer. The second is that King Leopold will make an unannounced visit to MCD (SOE) tomorrow morning to meet our Rhineland planning group. John Gort and I left after lunch but not before suggesting to Edward that he brings King Leopold to the hotel this evening. He said that he'll try. Everything considered it has been a very constructive weekend at the Chequers 'summit'. I'm beginning to look forward to Versailles.
I also had an opportunity to talk with Louis about a new Naval Doctrine and told him about the meeting with Duff Cooper and Admiral Royle at MCD. We are both full of ideas so the Admiralty will definitely be in for a surprise tomorrow afternoon. Two more good things to report. PM Daladier personally supports our Hurricane offer but will receive opposition at home. We'll have to sweeten the offer. The second is that King Leopold will make an unannounced visit to MCD (SOE) tomorrow morning to meet our Rhineland planning group. John Gort and I left after lunch but not before suggesting to Edward that he brings King Leopold to the hotel this evening. He said that he'll try. Everything considered it has been a very constructive weekend at the Chequers 'summit'. I'm beginning to look forward to Versailles.