830
П. Кийкем
ра PA VK46-
Reference: Mr. Heath's minute of 1 June about papers for
an incoming Government.
Majora
M25%
п
CONFIDENTIAL
し、
Mr. Heath
MY LA
En. 41
6
My first reaction is that these notes are rather too complex for incoming Ministers. We need something very simple with rather more background and a clearer indication of the issues on which Ministers may have to take decisions shortly after assuming office.
2. However, before suggesting amendments, I should be grateful if you would discuss the question of timing with Mr.
Cradock. Both your notes are likely to be overtaken by events. In the case of non-cotton textiles, we are working with the Board of Trade and the Ministry of Technology on a joint submission which will, we hope, be put to Ministers within the next few days. It is possible that the resulting action could change the picture quite considerably and that we might, as a result, have to withdraw the attached note altogether. Similarly, in the case of bananas, we should know by 16 June (or a few days earlier) whether Lord Denning's work as conciliator has been successful. Clearly, the way in which the problem is explained to Ministers will depend on whether there is likely to be pressure from Caribbean Ministers for a meeting with their British counterparts shortly after the new
Government assumes office. Indeed, if Lord Denning can persuade the Jamaicans and Fyffes to reach agreement, there will be little need to worry Ministers with this problem which could then be relegated to a couple of sentences in the more general paper on
the Caribbean.
3. I therefore hope that Mr. Cradock would agree to leave the timing of the submission of papers on both non-cotton textiles and bananas to us on the understanding that we will put them forward before 18 June and as soon as the situation on both sides had
become firm.
8
(F.G.K. Gallagher)
1 June, 1970
c.c. Mr.
Lairă
Nr. de Courcy Ireland Mr. Pugh
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.