A CONFIDENTIAL 4. It thus appears that the Japanese, contrary to the impression we had been given, have not been taking the lead to ensure oil supplies at whatever cost but have attempted to restrain their oil companies from bidding excessive prices. We would be grateful for any background details you or other recipients of this letter can give us. The price Abu Dhabi succeeds in getting for its oil will obviously have repercussions far afield in the industry. A D Harris Middle East Department Copied to: Chancery, Dubai A N R Millington Esq - Tokyo A Reeve Esq - Washington G P Lockton Esq - ISED
