of D(50)70
Page 231
Page 231
It is suggested therefor that the
Grantham proposal should be pressed and only
when it is clear that it is unacceptable to the
Committee should the Secretary of State revert
Robul
to the line now supported by Sir
ir t
10.
are:-
Black.
The arguments for the Grantham proposals
(a) They are a way out of an impasse.
Service Department title to the
lands is very doubtful, and a deal
would save prolonged haggling,
(b) If a decision on the artillery
units goes against the Colony
there is bound to be bitterness against
the Service Departments, and even
among those who are not aware of the
bargain which has been proposed as
between these lands and the units,
Over the lands the desire to drive a hard bargain
will be predominant.
The closure
of the naval dockyard will increase
this feeling; and at the same time
H.M.G's continued demand for a
defence contribution of £lm, and its
continued refusal to help with
refugees will cause further
bitterness;
(c) We cannot force Finance Committee
or the Legislature to pay their
Defence contribution.
Means must
be found of maintaining the
contribution which do not involve a
head-on collision.
Page 231
/11.