Effect of UK Defence Review on Oman

This file relates to the UK defence review and its impact on the military situation in, and relationship with Oman. It contains correspondence concerning:

• The extent of British military involvement in Oman; and HMG's support for the Sultan's Armed Forces against the rebels in Dhofar, including the provision of loan personnel
• The future of Britain's presence at the airfields at Masirah and Salalah, which are governed by 1958 exchanges of letters with the previous Sultan, Saeed Bin Taimur; and HMG's reluctance to make a decision on withdrawal until after the conclusion of the Dhofar rebellion
• Ministers' wish to end British military involvement in the Dhofar conflict as soon as can be done so in a way acceptable to the US, Iran, and Saudi Arabia; and Ministers' provisional decision to withdraw from Masirah as soon as can be done without upsetting the delicate situation in the area
• A meeting between Sultan Qaboos Bin Saeed Al Said and Prime Minister Harold Wilson during a private visit to the UK
• A meeting of the Sub Committee of the Permanent Under-Secretaries Steering Committee; and a memorandum on the overall defence review for the Cabinet's consideration
• Preparation for UK consultations with the US and Iran; a draft speaking note for Cabinet Secretary Sir J J B Hunt's opening statement when consultations with the US begin; and the concern of US Defence Secretary J R Schlesinger about the long-term effect of Britain's intended withdrawal from Masirah
• Consideration of the UK's non-NATO and Mediterranean defence commitments and planned withdrawals/reductions
• The future of the rebroadcasting station on Masirah (for the BBC Asian service)
• A parliamentary statement on the defence review by Defence Secretary Roy Mason; and discussion between M S Weir and the Omani Ambassador about the implications for Oman