§ Q2. Sir T. Beamishasked the Prime Minister what discussions he has had with President Johnson regarding sharing the cost of providing joint military staging facilities in the Indian Ocean; what agreement has been reached; and if he will publish a White Paper incorporating the joint conclusions.
§ The Prime MinisterThe Answer to the first part of the Question is "None, Sir". The two latter parts do not arise, though the hon. and gallant Gentleman will be aware of the White Paper, Command 3231, published in April last.
§ Sir T. BeamishHave the Government now given up the idea of an alternative route to the Persian Gulf via a staging post in the Indian Ocean which, until recently, was apparently regarded as very important, or is this an example of members of the Armed Forces being expected to run risks which would not be justifiable in normal circumstances?
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir. My right hon. Friend the Defence Secretary explained fully the reasons for our decision on Aldabra. As the hon. and gallant Gentleman will be aware, no final decision had been taken on whether to go ahead with that operation or not.