3.
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allies, I think it would probably be better also to change the last sentence of paragraph 5 to read "Consultations will take place during the next few weeks". At the time of the Statement we shall presumably be happy in most cases to send the warning messages envisaged in paragraph 5 (h) of the Sub Committee record.
If you have any comments on the conclusions in paragraph 5 of the record about the basis on which consultation briefs should be prepared, perhaps we could have a word on the telephone? I attach for Mr Wright, Mr Goodison and Mr Hickman, a copy of a related letter from 'r Thomson to Mr Howard Smith. I also attach for the Heads of Department concerned copies of the first (MOD) drafts of consultation briefs, received this morning, based on paragraph 5 of the record and designed initially for consultation with the Americans. They include some pencilled amendments suggested by Mr Thomson and myself. We have to get any initial FCO suggested amendments to MOD by close of play today (though we shall have
a further opportunity to comment on them at the sub-committee meeting on 11 October). I should therefore be grateful if you would let me know urgently whether you have any further changes to suggest. Because of the volume of work, I should be grateful, if possible, for complete redrafts where the amendments are substantial.
7 October 1974
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Teddy Jacke
JE Jackson
Defence Department