Shortage of troops
The situation at Passchendaele was made worse by an increasing shortage of troops. This was the result not just of 'wastage' but of the sending of two divisions to relieve the embattled Italians following their defeat by the Germans at the Battle of Caporetto.
General Haig reported:
'It is essential that we should be in a position to continue the battle well into November. By this means, and by this means only, can we ensure final victory by wearing out the enemy's resistance. Under the circumstances, there is no alternative but to throw into battle, as a fighting man, every single able-bodied man in France.'
