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NATO commitments in the Mediterranean
28.
The Government has decided that it cannot in future continue to
commit British maritime forces to the Mediterranean in support of
NATO. After 1976 no destroyers, frigates or coastal minesweepers will
be earmarked for assignment to NATO in the area; and that between
1977 and 1979 the RAF Nimrods and Canberras at present committed to
NATO there will be withdrawn. In peace time HM Ships will however
visit the Mediterranean from time to time and will contine to part-
icipate in exercises there with our NATO Allies.
29. The Government of Malta has been informed that HMG proposes to
arrange for the run-down of the British forces in Malta between
1 April 1977 and 31 March 1979, when the Military Facilities
Agreement expires.
Government reactions to NATO's suggestions
30.
During our consultations with our NATO Allies (see paragraphs
12-15 above) they have asked us to reconsider those features of the
reductions which they consider most damaging and to study the
possibility of undertaking compensatory measures. We have undertaken
to study such measures on the clear understanding that all of Britain's
defence commitments and capabilities must be met from within the
total of resources which the Government decided last December it
could in future allocate to defence.
31. On this basis the Government is ready to make the following
changes in the details of its original proposals, to help meet the
main points of NATO concern:-
(a) to convert HMS Hermes to the anti-submarine role in 1976,
instead of 1978;
(b) to earmark for assignment to Commander in Chief Channel
(CINCHAN) the Royal Fleet Auxiliary Engadine, carrying
helicopters in the anti-submarine role;
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