§ Sir G. Sinclairasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs, in view of Great Britain's decision to withdraw from the Far East, what proposals he has for improving relations between this country and Australia.
§ Mr. George ThomsonOur recent decisions on defence policy in the Far East were taken after the closest consultation with the Australian Government. As the House knows, we are planning to maintain a military capability for use, if required, in the area even when we no304W longer have forces permanently based there. We shall continue to remain in very close touch with the Australian Government on these issues; and I do not accept that our decisions have damaged our relations with Australia in the way that is implied.