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Mr Jackson
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DEFENCE REVIEW*
1.
UK EYES B REGISTRY No. 51
- 8 JUL 1974
HKK 10/9. 10/9.
I only received your minute of 4 July this morning, and consequently was unable to comment before the deadline. But I understand that comments are still welcome.
2.
sure that it is important to resist pressure to accept further cutsif we possibly can. But if not, I agree that we should be given time, as suggested in paragraph 5 of your minute, in which to try to work out with the MOD and the Intelligence Organisa- tions variations on the MOD's proposed solutions without altering the political commitments.
3.
As regards the specific suggestions outlined in paragraphs 5 (ii) to (iv) of your minute, I can only say that they would only be acceptable to the extent that they left the Hong Kong garrison as a fully credible force for the task it has to cover. This is the fundamental consideration.
4.
During his recent visit the Governor suggested that savings might be achieved by increasing the ratio of Gurkhas to United Kingdom forces, on the grounds that it only costs about one quarter as much to maintain a Gurkha as to maintain a British soldier. I gather that this may not be a wholly realistic figure, but nonetheless I think the suggestion is an important one and should be included in proposals for reduction of expenditure. It does not appear in the MOD paper enclosed with your minute. Mr Male referred to it in his minute of 26 June to Mr Westbrook.
5.
They
The Hong Kong Government will, incidentally, strongly resist attempts to make them pay more for a reduced garrison than their present contribution. will argue that to do so would involve cutting back funds earmarked for their social services and housing programme, which they are under pressure, not least from this country, to maintain.
5 July 1974
cc
Mr Hickman, SWPD
Sir G Arthur
Mr Thomson
Mr Male
Mr Masefield
Mr Westbrook Mr Elliott
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RB Crowson
Hong Kong & Indian Ocean
Dept.