US-Japan Defence Co-operation: Guidelines

HL Deb 04 November 1998 vol 594 c55WA

Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they have been informed of the geographical scope of the newly updated guidelines for Japan-United States defence co-operation; and how these guidelines may affect the American position in Diego Garcia. [HL2648]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

The guidelines for US-Japan Defence Co-operation refer to co-operation,inter alia, in situations in areas surrounding Japan. The guidelines state that the concept is not geographical but situational. Since the guidelines represent an agreement between Japan and the United States, we do not presume to know how they may affect US activity in Diego Garcia. But it remains the case that our agreement is necessary for the use of aircraft based in Diego Garcia in any act against a third party.