defeat of the Allied armies in Northern France. Subsequently the Germans will have to repair and remove any demolition and blocking operations, and will have to assemble the necessary craft. There is thus no immediate threat of the use of these ports by Germany provided that they are effectively blocked by us. 8. Belgian and Dutch Ports. The Helder and the Scheldt harbours are now open, * and Rotterdam could be at least partially used. Small craft in considerable numbers are available, but little shipping of larger size.