During initial discussions in the Canada-U.S. Military Cooperation Committee, when the Canada-U.S. Basic Security Plan was first under consideration, the Canadian Section questioned whether a defensive plan could be evolved without relating it to potential offensive measures. At that time, however, and subsequently during discussions, the U.S. representatives took the view that they were empowered only to discuss measures for North American defence and that the Basic Security Plan must be confined to this field. It has, however, been generally recognized, in the preparation of detailed plans, that defensive measures should be kept to an absolute minimum. It has also been recognized that certain of the installations and facilities required for defence under the plan are equally useful for offensive purposes. This is particularly true of air navigation facilities, such as low frequency loran, and of air bases. It is quite obvious that the U.S. are very conscious of offensive potentialities when they express interest in air bases in Canadian territory and they wish to see these developed in such a manner as to be readily adaptable for this purpose.

2. The Canadian Chiefs of Staff like the United States Chiefs consider the most effective means of defence to be offensive strength which will include the ability to strike retaliatory blows and to destroy any potential enemy's ability to launch an effective attack against this Continent. The advent of the high-speed, long-range aircraft, coupled with more destructive offensive weapons such as the atomic bomb, has accelerated acceptance of this strategic concept.

3. Though these theories are held by the military authorities of both countries, Canada has as yet no detailed knowledge of American strategic plans, of how offensive and defensive plans are integrated, and in what proportions the effort is to be divided. Moreover, the United States have understandably shown reluctance to discuss their overall plans. Since, however, Canada provides the essential areas for the establishment of the military installations required by the United States for her ultimate security, it is important that the Canadian Government should have fuller knowledge of U.S. plans. The only way in which this can be obtained is orally and at a high level.

E. G[ILL]