U.K. National Archives

Attendees: E Heath; R Maudling; Hailsham; W Whitelaw; K Joseph; R Carr; G Campbell; P Walker; J Prior; A Douglas-Home; A Barber; Carrington; G Rippon; M Thatcher; Jellicoe; P Thomas; J Davies; F Pym; P Rawlinson.

Text: Turning to his visit to Pakistan, the Prime Minister said that his arrival there had unfortunately coincided with anti-British disturbances provoked by a publication in London of a book originating in the United States, which was allegedly insulting to Muslim beliefs. Nevertheless, he had had full and cordial discussions with President Yahya Khan. The latter was anxious to stabilize the political situation after the recent elections, to introduce a new constitution and to return to normal forms of government. But the irresponsibility of the two major parties made it unlikely that this could be achieved in the immediate future. The difficult economic situation in east Pakistan was also causing the President anxiety. He recognized that the remedy for East Pakistan’s economic problems lay in opening up trade with India; and was anxious to do so as soon as possible. The Government of Pakistan seemed to have lost their initial enthusiasm for the Chinese connection and now appeared to be keeping China at arm’s length.

In India the prime Minister, Mrs. Gandhi, had been relaxed and friendly. She expected to with the forthcoming election and had emphasised her anxiety to obtain greater British investment in India; indicating that she was willing to make the changes necessary to attract possible investors. …….