1. We are entirely in agreement with the views expressed in your
telegram No. 219 Of [17]th December. [1] We are also of the
opinion that the questions raised should be discussed during the
forthcoming meetings in London.

2. While we feel that there would be long term advantages in
having strong joint British Commonwealth - United States bases in
the Pacific, it seems to us that the establishment of such bases
must be related to an overall plan in which their role should be
clearly defined.

3. In any negotiations, we should need to have regard to our
obligations as a member of the United Nations. Other points which
we should have to consider include-
(a) Limitation of area required.

(b) Our position as a mandatory power and responsibilities to the
native population.

(c) Our right to joint use.

4. We agree that the whole subject is too important to be settled
in a precipitate manner.

5. Owing to Christmas break full expression Government's final
view not possible but above represents first considered views. [2]