TNAG-0539-FCO40-634-Strength-of-garrison-in-Hong-Kong-1975 — Page 23

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NATO commitments in the Mediterranean

28.

The Government has decided that it cannot in future continue to

commit British maritime forces to the Mediterranean in support of

NATO. After 1976 no destroyers, frigates or coastal minesweepers will

be earmarked for assignment to NATO in the area; and that between

1977 and 1979 the RAF Nimrods and Canberras at present committed to

NATO there will be withdrawn. In peace time HM Ships will however

visit the Mediterranean from time to time and will contine to part-

icipate in exercises there with our NATO Allies.

29. The Government of Malta has been informed that HMG proposes to

arrange for the run-down of the British forces in Malta between

1 April 1977 and 31 March 1979, when the Military Facilities

Agreement expires.

Government reactions to NATO's suggestions

30.

During our consultations with our NATO Allies (see paragraphs

12-15 above) they have asked us to reconsider those features of the

reductions which they consider most damaging and to study the

possibility of undertaking compensatory measures. We have undertaken

to study such measures on the clear understanding that all of Britain's

defence commitments and capabilities must be met from within the

total of resources which the Government decided last December it

could in future allocate to defence.

31. On this basis the Government is ready to make the following

changes in the details of its original proposals, to help meet the

main points of NATO concern:-

(a) to convert HMS Hermes to the anti-submarine role in 1976,

instead of 1978;

(b) to earmark for assignment to Commander in Chief Channel

(CINCHAN) the Royal Fleet Auxiliary Engadine, carrying

helicopters in the anti-submarine role;

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