HWB. 2/2.
CONFIDENTIAL
7 June, 1967.
20
2/26
I am writing, as arranged, to confirm the general agreement reached in the course of our discussion this morning about the forthcoming visit to Hong Kong of the nuclear-powered merchant ship "SAVANNAH".
We reached agreement on the following conclusions and arrangements:
(1) The decision that the visit should go ahead remains
subject to review in the light of any events that may occur before the visit takes place. We hope, however, that nothing will, in fact, transpire which is of a nature likely to interfere with the visit.
(2) Apart from advertising for cargo in trade journals,
publicity for the visit will be kept to the absolute minimum.
(3) The "SAVANNAH" will go no further into Hong Kong harbour
than do United States nuclear warships. You did, however, make the point that it would be preferable to avoid using the same berthing buoys as for warships because it is desirable to emphasise the fact that the "SAVANNAH" is operating as a nuclear merchant ship and to avoid any possibility of her being linked with warships in the public eye. You accordingly suggested that she might be berthed in the same vicinity as other United States merchant vessels. This point is being referred to the Governor for consideration.
(4) We expect that an agreement between the United States
Government and Her Majesty's Government will be concluded sometime next week to cover the nuclear liability aspect of the visit.
(5) It was agreed that the cost of providing a United Kingdom
monitoring team (estimated by the relevant United Kingdom authorities as being approximately £2,500) would be met by the United States Government ·
I trust that you will agree that the above represents a fairly accurate record of the outcome of our discussions. Perhaps you would be good enough to let me know if there are any amendments or additions that you would wish to make.
Charles W. Lyons Esq.,
(A.W. GAMINARA)
Shipping Attaché,
Embassy of the United States of America,
Grosvenor Square,
London, W.lo
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