§ 91 and 92. Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs (1) what discussions he has had with the 303W Government of Tanzania about a British and United States base or staging post at Aldabra Atoll in the Indian Ocean; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what representations he has had from the Indian Government about a British/United States base or staging post on the island of Aldabra; and what reply he has sent.
§ Mr. George ThomsonWe have had no discussions about Aldabra with the Government of Tanzania which broke diplomatic relations with Britain in December, 1965. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs have expressed their objections to the establishment of military bases in the Indian Ocean. As a result of discussions both in London and New Delhi I am satisfied that the Indian Government accept our assurances that what we have been considering is the construction of staging facilities, not a base.