Lotidon, Jan, 7.
RITISH mechanized forces are now in contact with the outer defences of Tobruk, it is stated in authoritative quarters in London, In preparation for a British attack, the Royal Air Force has begun a heavy bombardment of the strongly fortified Italian air and naval base, Late last night British bombers started fires so big that they could be seen.at Bardia, 55 miles away.
Tripoli, several hundred miles further off, was also bombed.
Reuter's special correspondent at British Military Headquarters tu the Western Desort reports that between Bardia, which now has been cleaned completely, and Tobruk, there are virtually no" Italian troops, and British patrols cover the whole of the intervening country.
Tobruk's defences consist of two perimeters, while Bardia had only one, The outer perimeter of Tobruk ig about 25 miles in circumference, ad the inner one about 11 miles, Halians'and driven from their homies rise and attack every unprotected 'The position of all ports and aero romes along' the Libyan coast are of such importance to the British 'Navy and air force that their capture should be the first objective. With these in British hands, the command of the Mediterranean' and the free [passages of supplies by sea from the cast will be regained, and at the same
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.