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4.
iv)
In sub-section (e) the word "large" in the first
sentence should be omitted.
10.
Paragraph 18
The second and third sentences should be replaced by the
following:
"The reductions proposed in BAOR might however be achieved as a result of an MBFR agreement. If we were to demonstrate willingness to be flexible about the timing and precise composition of other cuts, it should be possible to reduce our defence spending to the figure envisaged for the critical level without serious damage to the cohesion of NATO, although our standing in the Alliance would be affected. We stress the importance of full and effective consultation with our Allies in paragraphs
below. In advance of such consultation it is
not possible to form a precise judgement of the political impact of the particular reductions proposed in the Chiefs of Staff assessment of the critical level: these proposals should there- fore be regarded as illustrative at this stage. Smaller reductions in combat forces, coupled with greater cuts in equipment, support, and R and D, might be more politically acceptable. It is the combat strength of our forces, and the proportion of them forward based on Continental Europe, that our Allies will regard as the index of our political resolution. Subject to these provisos the Committee agrees with the Chiefs of Staff assessment, and believes that it approximates to the minimum level of force contribution consistent with Allied confidence in NATO strategy."
11.
Paragraph 19
Replace the present paragraph by the following version: "The critical level makes no provision for any British capability in the Mediterranean, where there are major NATO interests, nor in regions beyond the NATO area. Although NATO is the heart of our defence policy, we have considerable political and other interests elsewhere, and in any case we cannot abandon our Mediterranean commitments without seriously affected NATO. Moreover, we must consider the likely effects of reneging (for the first time in peacetime) on our obligations to our
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