Page 121 from FCO 372113 - the Nuclear policy of Pakistan 1978

The document highlights the potential negative impact of the French government's decision not to supply a reprocessing plant to Pakistan and the disappointment felt by Pakistan due to increased Soviet influence in Afghanistan. The refusal to export the inverters is expected to create further difficulties in UK-Pakistan relations. To minimize the damage, it is suggested to inform the Pakistan government that general controls will be introduced for the export of inverters that could be used in the construction of a gas centrifuge. Specifically, it will affect the order placed with Eserman (through Veargate) as the specifications fall within the defined scope. The document proposes that the British Ambassador in Islamabad make appropriate points about the UK's non-proliferation obligations.