BBC relay station on Masirah Island

This file contains correspondence relating to negotiations between HMG and the Sultan of Muscat and Oman Saeed Bin Taimur for permission to lease land on Masirah Island to establish a relay station and therefore create a more audible BBC service, which can be used as a 'weapon' against revolutionary countries of the Arab World; and the Sultan's conflation of the issue with his interest in an agreement with Pakistan over Gwadur [Gwadar] and his concern that this might affect possible mineral exploration on the island. This file also contains:

• A map of Masirah Island, illustrating the area required
• Correspondence and memoranda on the practical, technical and financial aspects of establishing the relay station
• A draft agreement
• Consideration of the threat of sabotage, possibly by Omani rebels backed by Egypt and security concerns about the proposed construction firm
• Correspondence relating to the rules on the import and consumption of alcohol applicable to relay station staff.