prospect of a reprieve for HMS Malabar .

Admiral Sir Hugo White briefly discussed Malabar 's future with -- among others -- Governor Lord Waddington.

But even as he spoke, British resolve to cut its defences seemed to be hardening.

Amid raging controversy, British Defence Secretary Malcolm Rifkind is due to announce more cuts -- part of a review called Front Line First -- on July 12.

It is thought the axe would fall on air force manpower, where numbers have already fallen to almost 75,000 from 89,000 four years ago, and one of two Scottish naval bases.

Mr. Rifkind, who was in Bermuda recently, is under pressure to cut $1.15 billion from spending to meet or undercut the forecast $34 billion defence budget for 1995-96 -- three percent lower than 1994-95.

For HMS Malabar comanding officer Cdr. Robin Bawtree, the message from Britain was clear.

"I would say this really rules out any chance of a change of mind over Malabar,'' he said yesterday. "The decision to close Malabar was made some time ago. I would say it is irreversible.'' Sir Hugo, Commander in Chief Fleet, arrived in Bermuda on Friday.

His first port of call was the Royal Navy's anti-submarine frigate, HMS Norfolk , which was berthed off Front Street.

Later, he met Lord Waddington at Government House.

"Malabar was obviously discussed, although there was not a great deal of time,'' said Cdr. Bawtree.

Realism had overcome hopes of a stay of execution for HMS Malabar , he added.

On Saturday, Sir Hugo visited the base and chatted to the personnel.

The trip was part of his duties as commander and chief of all overseas Navy establishments.

"We have had the admiral's flag flying at HMS Malabar ,'' said Cdr. Bawtree.

"I think that is the first time this has happened since 1956.'' Cdr. Bawtree said Sir Hugo was also present for yesterday's Queen's Birthday Parade, for which HMS Norfolk provided a guard of honour.

Sir Hugo afterwards left the Island for Boston and Florida.