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ago and had reported that the line of sight to the Indian Ocean satellite is not good from the proposed site. There is a considerable number of high rise buildings which ring the proposed site and these also partially obscure the Pacific Ocean satellite. Miss Holder said that this issue of line of sight for satellite dishes had been raised at the last NPLC meeting and that for new projects all departments were aware of requirements. Mr Wallace agreed but questioned whether the possible problem in Hong Kong had been recognised. Mr Newey said that a misunderstanding may have occurred. There would be a clear line of sight to the Indian Ocean satellite from the new British Council office. This was difficult to appreciate looking at the plans. Mr Wallace said he would send a copy of Mr Williams' report to OED for their consideration. Miss Holder suggested that Hong Kong Department might also be kept informed in case of possible difficulties with communications systems. This was not reallty a security problem.
Action: Mr Wallace
AMMAN
23.
Mr Simms said that work on the main roof is 90% complete. He added that the stone cladding was worse than had been thought and will have to be removed so the whole building can be re-clad. Mr Newey added that OED were pressing for the original contractors to pay for these works. Mr Beard asked if the re-cladding works would involve all sections of the Embassy. Newey briefly explained the re-cladding process and said that all offices would be affected and would not be able to carry on working when that particular section is being re-clad, because of disruption and noise.
24. Mr Simms said tenders have been requested for the visa reception at the main gate and security works on the perimeter wall. Proposals for enlarging the windows are under
Mr
consideration. Post have requested these works go ahead to provide a better working environment. Mrs O'Brien confirmed that Mr Melvin, MPG, OED, has already been in touch about this and a meeting will be arranged to discuss the works involved. Mr Simms said the DS Inspectors were presently in Amman and have been asked to comment on these future works.
TEHRAN
25.
Mr Simms informed the Committee that a meeting took place in OED in October which clarified the position regarding the works to be carried out. The Visa Offices at Ferdowski compound will be built as soon as practicable. Working drawings are being prepared and the contract will be let soon. The work currently in progress on the Residence bathroom and kitchen will be completed but there will be no refurbishment of the State Rooms. This project has been mothballed. The infrastructure works to the mains services and service roads to the compounds will be
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/completed
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