TNAG-1260-FCO40-1600-Briefings-for-Ministers-and-FCO-officials-on-the-future-of-H-1983 — Page 15

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relations with at least three-quarters of the

independent states of the world, nearly half of them

members of the Commonwealth.

The ideal is to maintain

in every capital of significance the kind of

professional and personal links which can be activated

at any time, as during the Falklands crisis, in support

This is one of the benefits of of British interests.

the Commonwealth which we can foster at periodic CHOGMS. This consideration clearly has to be reconciled with the other needs and resources considered in paragraph 20 above.

23.

Public Opinion. During the election campaign, the shift in public attitudes on defence and the European Community showed how far and fast opinion could be led

There is a by arguments supported with facts.

permament lesson here.

During the next few years the

Government will continue to be vulnerable both on these two themes and on others, not least the three major post-imperial issues (paragraphs 13-15 above).

There

This

is a case for taking more of a lead to ensure that Parliament and the public understand better what the British Government is doing in the world and why. will require a different approach and some different techniques from those hitherto regarded as customary.

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Mr Dickinson

Guidance Section

Information Dept