DRIVE ON SINGAPORE

Evening Post, Volume CXXXIII, Issue 24, 29 January 1942, Page 7

DRIVE ON SINGAPORE

DEFENDERS' DANGER

CBy Telegraph—Press Association —Copyright.)

(Rec. 9 a.m.) LONDON, Jan. 28

The pressure on Singapore is viewed most seriously here, and it is realised that the climax of the Malayan struggle is close.

The feeling exists that the Empire forces are in danger of being trapped. With the Japanese pressing the Imperial forces from the west to the east coast, the present fighting represents a battle for roads and the only railway to Singapore.

The lessons of the Malayan campaign, however, are likely to be turned to advantage in. Burma, where a major conflict appears to be developing.

General Wavell's recent visit to Rangoon is believed to be likely to result in the application of special tactics to counter the Japanese offensive. According to very reliable sources, General Wavell stressed the necessity of maintaining an offensive wherever it was possible to do so, and is also understood to have recommended that the utmost judgment should be exercised in order to avoid over-estimating the Japanese numerical superiority.

Some reports have said that the Japanese practice of infiltrating along the flanks of the British forces often gives the impression that their numbers are greater than actually is the case.

It is now known that a considerable number of British and Indian troops cut off in the Batu Pahat area on the west coast have rejoined our main forces.

The latest air raid on Singapore took place this morning when 27 Japanese bombers flew over the city. Damage and casualties are reported to be small.

It is announced that the evacuation of the north coast area of Singapore island must be completed by Friday,