DECRET
present rapid reinforcement capability, but also to reduce
the total of forces from its present six and two-thirds major
units to five and two-thirds. We support the conclusion
that Hong Kong should be asked to pay a much larger proportion
of these costs than the present $8 million contribution.
But a judgement about the right proportion must depend to
some extent on the final assessment of total costs, which is
not yet complete. The proposed reductions in forces have
lowered the Ministry of Defence's estimate from £2 million
a year to about £31 million at September 1973 prices.
Governor has said that Hong Kong could - just increase
its contribution to £17 million £20 million (two to two-
G
The
and-a-half times the present contribution). But further
discussions on this should await a more complete and up to
date. assessment of total costs.
GAN
7.
When we give up the airfield at Gan we shall ask the
Maldivians not to allow the Russians or others to take it
over. We shall have to provide them with some inducements,
for example in aid, to get them to agree.
DIEGO GARCIA
8.
There is no immediate pressure from the Americans for
a public announcement by Her Majesty's Government about
Diego Garcia since Congress is at present in recess and
further consideration of the Diego Garcia proposals is unlikely
:
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