BACKGROUND NOTE
STECERS
1. The annual cost to HMG of the forces presently stationed in
Hong Kong is 2m33.5 of which the Army element (63 teeth arm units
and support) accounts for 2m25.3. In addition, under the 5 year
agreement signed in 1971, the Hong Kong Government contributes about
Sm8.5 annually.
2. In its final report to Ministers (OPD(74)23, paragraph 28)
the Defence Review Steering Committee recognised that, so long as
Hong Kong remains a British colony, a garrison will need to be
retained to act in support of internal security and to maintain
public confidence. The report quoted informal military advice to
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the effect that the garrison could not be reduced substantially
below its present lèvel: the Army element could, however, be
reduced from 63 major units to 5%, including Gurkhas. No forces
would be mtaintained solely for reinforcement of the garrison, but
a reinforcement capability would be retained.
that the Hong Kong Government should be asked to meet the whole cost
of such forces as they wished to see retained.
It was also recommended
3. At their meeting on 1 August (OPD(74)13th Yeeting, item 1)
the Defence and Oversea Policy Committee called for a further study
of the minimum level of forces required in Hong Kong and of what
capability, if any, was necessary for reinforcement. The study,
which is now in hand and due to be completed by the beginning of
September, will aim to balance the costs of a smaller garrison with
a reinforcement capability against those of forces closer to the
present level but without such a capability, taking into account the
wish of Ministers that the cost of the garrison should be met by the
SE