Encouraging signs - visitors are arriving fully briefed and can enter straight into discussions; hope for relaxation of funding rule; grattude from Cato; expression that efforts of UK diplomatic service have helped the situation
First page: Response to Bottomley's request of £5000 (CC#467); in first instance unwilling to do this as it would set a precedent for other preemptive measures, such as for flood preparation in India and Pakistan; however, willing to use £5000 gift…
Reply to Prof Sutton regarding provision of seismometers; reaffirms the lack of funds available to do this from FCO; suggests that the Overseas Development Administration may be of help.
Conveyance of Rucker's letter regarding the decision to change naval vessels to a 72 hour distance; request for guidance on response.
Second page are notes in response to above from Fawcett and Newsam, concede that 72 hours will need to be accepted,…
Discussion of proximity of Naval vessels; outlines the pros and cons of maintaining 24hr distance to that of 72hrs; decision made on balance that 72hrs is most preferred option given other priorities. Also contains pages showing the timelines of when…
Letter reporting that four seismometers have been found that can be loaned for use in St Vincent; advises that the maintenance of an adequate monitoring system will be essential; proposes that financial support for this should be provided by UK govt.