SECRET
future force levels there in the light of the OPD
discussion on 1 August. When we are ready for formal
discussions with the Hong Kong Government, we could go
ahead without needing to consult the Americans in advance,
assuming that we intend to keep forces of a reasonable size.
At that stage we could tell our Cabinet colleagues what we
are aiming for, though we should need to take care to
avoid leaks elsewhere.
I note Denis Healey's views that the run-down of
our forces in Cyprus should be one of our objectives in
working towards a settlement there. We shall probably
have to discuss our thoughts in this connection with the
Americans quite soon and I do not think that they will take
it amiss if we say it is an aspect of our defence policy
which we need to tackle with them separately and urgently.
The situation is complicated because of the prospect of
future talks, but I am moving towards a complete evacuation
of the bases.
I have considered whether we might also start
separate consultations about the Five Power Defence
Arrangements in Malta.
in Malta.
But I would be opposed to this.
/ The