CONFIDENTIAL
to report on their discussions with third countries.
4. I have now discussed the problem with the geographical
side of the Office and I fear our view remains the one which
I expressed yesterday. We do not think that Foreign Office Ministers would agree to a further round of talks
at this stage.
Given that we are the crucial element in
the Australian Air Services proposals, we very much doubt whether our position would be weakened by delaying such talks. However, subject to consultation with Ministers here, we would see merit in further guidance to certain Posts when the message is sent to the Australians, to enable them to explain that we are not committed to the Australian ideas and that they would not involve cutting off direct services between those countries and London. We also suggest that, when our High Commission speak to the Australians they could explain, if such is now the case, that Laker has modified his proposals in a way in which would lead you to support them. I hope this would overcome your main problem.
CONFIDENTIAL
C
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.