TNAG-0834-FCO40-1042-Foreign-and-Commonwealth-Office-seminar-on-the-future-of-Bri-1979 — Page 198

Mr Stratton

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SEMINAK ON THE DEPENDENT TERRITORIES

1. As part of the FCO's regular programme, we are planning a seminar to discuss the future of Britain's remaining Dependent

Territories. The seminar will be held at the University of

Sussex's Institute of Development Studies from 24 to 26 September.

2. We aim to consider current policies and possible alternatives together with the special problems of small island states and the political and economic systems most appropriate to them. The Lependent Territories where special political considerations apply - Hong Kong, Belize, the Falkland Islands and Gibraltar will be excluded from the scope of the seminar.

3. we are aiming for around 24 participants, including academics, officials and others with special interests in the Dependent Territories. A list of those who have so far accepted invitations is attached. we also plan to invite a representative from the Commonwealth Cecretariat. Mr Stratton is likely to be the senior official, supported by representatives from wiAD, HAJD, the CDA and perhaps others.

4. I should be grateful to know whether hr kidley would be interested in attending the seminar for part of the time. There would be no need for him to be present throughout, but I am sure that it would be greatly appreciated by the participants if he were prepared to attend at the beginning and perhaps introduce the opening paper.

5. we also have it in mind to invite ar Ted kowlands MP (Ir hidley's predecessor) and Sir Bernard Braine MP. I should be grateful to know whether the Minister of State agrees with these suggestions or thinks that other MPs (or Peers) would be more appropriate.

17 July 1979

R JT McLaren

Hong Kong and General Department