SECRET UK EYES A
the areas in which we intend to remain are shown in yellow;
there from which we intend to withdraw in orange.
(PAUSE)
SLIDE 7 27.
OFF
*
Now for the Mediterranean, where our national interests
and responsibilities overlap those of NATO, but where ve
have already assessed that our own UK contribution to the
Alliance must, of necessity, assume a lower order of priority.
*
2. There will be no reductions in Gibraltar, where we
maintain a garrison of sufficient size to deter a
Spanish take-over, as well as naval and air facilities.
b. In Malta, as you already know, the present Military
Facilities Agreement expires in March 1979. It is our
intention to reduce our forces gradually, between 1977
and 1979, by which time they will be completely withdrawn.
They currently include a Royal Marine Commando Group, a
Canberra air reconnaissance squadron, a Nimrod maritime
patrol squadron and support facilities for these and for
Royal Navy warships operating in the area.
C.
Sir John Hunt has spoken about our thoughts
concerning the future of our forces in Cyprus. They
are fairly large, comprising some 9,000 service
personnel. They include, in particular, two squadrons of
dual-capable Vulcan aircraft, declared to CENTO but also
available for SACEUR's General Strike Plan, fighters and
radars which provide an extension of the NATO air defence
13 -
SECRET LA EYES A