10 November 1970

At this stage in the negotiations to secure Cross’ release, both the federal government and the provincial government of Quebec had made their positions clear: safe conduct to a foreign country or a trial in Canada with clemency for the kidnappers, as well as an agreement to look into offering parole to five FLQ political prisoners. With Laporte’s murder and the end of Bourassa’s six-hour deadline on 15 October, this position did not change. Nonetheless, the Task Force continued to plan for “variations” that might emerge during negotiations and noted various avenues that would allow negotiators to continue to bargain for Cross’ safe release. Although this memorandum does not recommend any change in government positions, it does “outline the range of issues which could arise.”