TNAG-0479-FCO40-544-Strength-of-garrison-in-Hong-Kong-1974 — Page 28

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Over Cyprus, we should be able to say at least that we propose to make some reductions, particularly in the RAF presence. For Anglo/US reasons, it is desirable that we should say something about Gan and Mauritius, because this should enable us to announce our agreement to the expansion of Diego Garcia.

7. I am having a preliminary meeting with the MOD about all this at 3.30 pm this afternoon. We shall not be able to take things far, but if you have any initial comments for my guidance, I should be grateful for them before lunch or between 2.45 and 3.15. After that, I shall be glad to discuss with you the content of the briefs for the Secretary of State if this would help. In considering what could be said in the Parliamentary statement and in messages to Governments, we shall need to bear in mind the need not only to create the maximum impression of consultation but also to reduce the risk of leaks from the countries concerned, before 3 December.

12 November 1974

Teddy Jack

JE Jackson Defence Dept.

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