SINGAPORE

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 5, Issue 15, 11 February 1942, Page 4

SINGAPORE

THE whole of the Malayan front has now narrowed clown to the battle for Singapore—all that now remains in British hands of her proud Straits Settlements possessions. Behind the battlements of the island fortress stand threequarters of a million, the military strength of which cannot be far short of 200,000 men. Of this figure however less than half will be trained and seasoned troops, and though they- will be augmented by Chinese auxiliaries who will no doubt give a splendid account of themselves,, the fact remains that many of the latter have not had a gun in their hands before. With their amazing audacity the: Japanese have now gained a foothold upon the island and are taking advantage of the terrific artillery bombardment to establish a chain of boats across the narrow Straits of Jahore. The Australians felt the first shock of the midnight landing and under intolerable pressure were compelled to give ground. Thus yesterday morning the world was to learn that the enemy had gained, a foothold upon the last stronghold cf the British forces in Malaya. The battle ahead will be a long and bitter one —-bitter in more ways than one, for the Empire has long been taught to regard the fortress of Singapore as impregnable. Flushed with the successful overrunning of the mainland the Japanese troops forced the passage of the straits in a flotilla of especially constructed craft of light draught and well protected Fortunately the line although severely dented is still'intact and the counter attack which must come shortly may succeed in throwing the enemy back into the sea. It is unthinkable that Singapore will be taken without a severe struggle while the chances are still favourable that it will defy all attempts at capture. General Wavell's assurance that it will be defended at all costs bears out the contention of Mr Curtin, Australia's Prime Minister who stated that the defence of Singapore was vital to the future of Australia itself. At the present moment the fortress is the key to the future of the Pacific war. Should it fall the hungry eyes of Nipponese militarists will be directed towards the lands ■of the south in accordance with their oft-repeated programme * of expansion. Even now the attempted reconnaissance by enemy craft of Darwin; sounds the warning bell of Japan's intentions, and we "may yet see the newly-formed.< Anzac Naval Force which will be responsible for this area,, swinging into the first line of action.