asked the Prime Minister whether the question of arms limitation in the Indian Ocean was discussed during his meetings with the Australian Prime Minister on 19th and 20th December 1974.

Yes. I expressed the view to Mr. Whitlam that any realistic arrangements for arms limitation in the Indian Ocean would clearly require the participation of the United States and Soviet Governments. I told him that the British Government accordingly supported his constructive suggestion that the United States and Soviet Governments should consult together on the possibility of mutual restraint in the Indian Ocean.