§ Mr. Eldon Griffithsasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether, in view of the United Kingdom's interests in the Trucial State 317W of Ras el Khaimah, he will make a statement on the present relations with the Sheikh of Ras el Khaimah, setting out such treaty obligations as still exist, the number and duties of British diplomatic and military personnel in that territory, and how he proposes to maintain the security of British interests there after the planned withdrawal of British forces from the Gulf.
§ Mr. Goronwy RobertsI would refer the hon. Member to my reply to the hon. Member for Chigwell (Mr. Biggs-Davison) on 26th February, 1968, in which I listed the principal treaties and agreements with the Trucial States, including Ras al Khaimah.
There are no British diplomatic personnel in Ras al Khaimah itself. The Political Agent at Dubai, under the supervision of the Political Resident, is responsible for conducting Her Majesty's Government's relations with the Ruler. 150 Trucial Oman Scouts, including two British officers, are stationed there. They are responsible for internal security and are controlled by the Political Resident.
The main British interest in Ras al Khaimah lies in its continued stability. The Sheikhdom's participation in the Union of Arab Emirates, with the good will of its neighbours, offers the best prospects for the future security of the area, and as the House are aware we welcome the development of that Union.—[Vol. 759, c. 229–30.]