THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HER BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT
RECEIVED IN
REGISTRY No. 261
PMVM(75)9 (Defensive)
10 FEB 1975
COPY NO 63
6 February 1975
VISIT OF THE PRIME MINISTER TO MOSCOW
13 to 17 February 1975
INDIAN OCEAN
Brief by Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Speaking Notes
Arms Limitations in the Indian Ocean
1. We share the desire of the Littoral States for peace and
stability in the Indian Ocean. It is clear that any realistic
arms control measures in the area would need to have the active
cooperation of the Soviet Union and the United States.
2. We therefore support the constructive suggestion made by
the Prime Minister of Australia that the Governments of the
Soviet Union and the United States should consult together on
the possibility of mutual restraint in the Indian Ocean. We
hope that the Soviet Government will give active and sympathetic
consideration to this proposal. Until something of this kind
is arranged, it is not surprising if the activities of one party
are watched with close attention by others who consider that
their interests in the area are no less great.
[If asked ]
3. We have already told the United States of our support for
Mr Whitlam's proposal.
SECRET
