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craft on the same basis as hitherto.
6. The two other deployments about which I am concerned that problems might soon arise are the Belize Garrison and the West Indies Guard Ship (WIGS). As regards Belize, our ultimate objective is of course full withdrawal of the garrison, and preferably sooner rather than later. But, given the importance of maintaining a stable background to the talks expected soon to resume on a settlement between Belize and Guatemala, I hope there will be no question of withdrawal before a satisfactory outcome is reached. Any such proposal could raise doubts in both countries about our commitment. As for the WIGS, apart from its relevance to Belize, there are very strong additional reasons for its continued presence in the area deriving from our firm commitment to stability in the Caribbean, which is seen by the US as an essential part of burdensharing. The role of the WIGS has in fact expanded in recent years not least in respect of the fight against drug trafficking and its withdrawal would
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not be understood by our main friends in the area.
7.
MAN7.
There are of course a number of other matters regarding out of area commitments - such as the Hong Kong Garrison, and the future of the Gurkhas on which close and full consultation between our two departments is vital and will I am sure continue.
8. I am copying this minute to the Prime Minister and the Chief Secretary in the Treasury, and to Sir Robin
Butler.
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