Following for Lord Winster, U.K. Minister of Civil Aviation from the Right Honourable C. D. Howe, Minister of Reconstruction and Supply. Begins: You will recall the discussions which we had in Bermuda last December on the question of a Canadian air service to Bermuda and the Caribbean area. Our understanding was that following these discussions the U.K. government would undertake to obtain the necessary permission from Trinidad, Jamaica, Bahamas and Bermuda.

The last official word which we received from the United Kingdom through diplomatic channels was to the effect that the necessary legislative clearance had been obtained in Trinidad and Jamaica and that as soon as Bermuda and the Bahamas had granted clearance we could proceed with the bilateral agreement. Subsequently we have been informed directly from Bermuda that clearance has been given and it is my understanding, based on private communications from the Bahamas, that no difficulty exists there either.

As you may imagine, we are under considerable pressure from the islands to initiate air service at the earliest possible date and we are anxious to start the operation as soon as circumstances may permit. I have received a direct communication from Bermuda requesting us to arrange for discussions for the conclusion of a bilateral agreement with the Bermuda Trade Development Board. It had been my understanding, however, that the necessary rights for the Canadian government in all the islands would be provided through a single bilateral agreement between Canada and the United Kingdom government, rather than by four separate agreements negotiated directly by Canada with the four different colonies. We are, of course, prepared to follow any course which may be acceptable, and are in particular anxious to make immediate arrangements with Bermuda for the early establishment of a T.C.A. service.

Before, however, replying to the formal communication which I have received from Bermuda, I considered it desirable to consult further with you with respect to the course which we might follow, having in mind the various circumstances referred to above. With best personal regards. Ends.