TNAG-0832-FCO40-1040-Future-of-the-Dependent-Territories-1979 — Page 166

CONFIDENTIAL

DRAFT

TERRITORIAL SURVEY

Type 1 +

From

To:-

TERRITORY: THE NEW HEBRIDES

In Confidence

Telephone No. Ext.

Department

DSR 11

POPULATION: 100,000

SPECIAL FACTORS:

The New Hebrides is an Anglo-French Condominium, responsibility for which is exercised jointly by

the British and French Governments.

PROSPECTS FOR INDEPENDENCE: Should become independent in 1980. Will require budgetary aid for the foreseeable future after independence. Economic viability is a long-term

prospect.

RECOMMENDED POLICY:

Anglo-French policy is to bring the terri- tory to independence as soon as possible, and in any event by no later than 1980, in accordance with the wishes of the New

Hebrides Government and people.

CONFIDENTIAL