N
Mr. K. M. Wilford
CONFIDENTIAL
cc M. E. 8. Carter, Hong Kong Dept.
Hr. R. A. Sykes, Defence Policy Dept.
i
FLAG A
FLAG B
RUNDOWN OF BRIGADE OF GURKHAS
You agreed that, during the second round of discussions
with the Governor of Hong Kong which are due to take place
from 8 to 10 December (my minute of 19 November), we should
speak to him informally about the future strength of the
Brigade of Gurkhas and warn the Governor that, in the course
of next year, we shall probably be seeking his comments on the
desirability or otherwise of retaining Gurkhas in the Colony's
Garrison after 1972,
2. The Ministry of Defence have agreed that we may put to the
Governor the figure of 4500 as our probable long term requirement
in Hong Kong. This was the figure mentioned in Major Lindsay's
letter of 7 November. The Ministry of Defence also agree that
we may quote the other information in this letter, emphasising
that the figures given are tentative and must be treated in the
strictest confidence.
3. We agree that we should not seek authority to pass on the
figures in the Ministry of Defence estimate to HM Ambassador in
Kathmandu.
You may however wish to thank Mr. Kellas for his
letter of 30 October. I attach a draft. I also attach a draft
to the Ministry of Defence enclosing a copy of Mr. Kellas
letter.
4.
This minute and the attached drafts have been agreed
with/
LAST
REF.
NEXT
REF.
Go
CONFIDENTIAL