1970–1973: Negotiating Benefits and Challenges

Abstract

By 1970–1973, the relationship had stabilised, so that British concerns were essentially conservative and defensive. British officials were aware of the strength of the Kenyans’ position, particularly with the Asian population as a bargaining chip. The period was characterised by multiple negotiations over aid, military agreements and personal relationships which clearly show that Britain was not in control of this relationship and could not dictate its terms. This chapter highlights the role of Kenyans in shaping policies and what both sides hoped to achieve. Although Britain might appear to be in the stronger position, this was not always the case, and Kenyans were able to influence the negotiations and their outcomes. British civil servants, diplomats and politicians felt themselves constrained both by their ideas of the possible and by the demands of Kenyans, and there were issues on which they clearly did compromise. The uncertainty around Kenyatta’s succession, which continued to fascinate British decision-makers, meant that they aimed to foster connections at multiple military and political levels rather than backing a single successor. This chapter uses different negotiations as a way to explore this negotiated relationship and where power rested at various points, internally within the British government, as well as with the Kenyans. It reveals the ways in which different issues were negotiated together and impacted upon one another, as the threat of Asian migration encouraged the British to offer better terms in arms deals, and the military benefits they received were linked to what they would offer.