SECRET, UK EYIS A
BA
EYES A
What
1.1978
4.
After considering the threat and role of the British forces in Hong Kong this report identified certain essential elements of the garrison. These were a United Kingdom battalion, as part of an infantry force able to cover the border and, in the IS role, provide adequate support for the police, some combat engineer capability, 8 Wessex helicopters and naval presence. The minimum naval presence identified by the working party was either one frigate or 5 patrol craft. After consulting the Unofficial Members of the Executive
and Legislation Council (UMELCO), the Governor indicated
at this time that the frigate option was preferred.
5.
The 5 teeth arm unit garrison relied upon a reinforcement of one infantry battalion from the UK within
three weeks. In the light of the current threat assessment
the Chiefs of Staff considered that whilst a Gurkha
battalion is available in Brunei and could be available in appreciably less than three weeks as an initial reinforcement,
then the stationed force in Hong Kong could be reduced to 43 units. This would involve increased risks in the event
of simultaneous disturbances occuring throughout the colony with little or no warning, but such circunstances are currently considered to be unlikely. The Gurkha battalion in Brunei will be available until at least mid
1978.
6. They agreed therefore that the future negotiations with the Hong Kong Government should be conducted on the basis of a minimum garrison consisting of:
1 Frigate
1 UK Infantry Battalion
3 Gurkha Infantry Battalions
1 Gurkha Engineer Field Squadron with its training wing 8 Wessex Helicopters
2
་མ་;
SELSBORDEAU EXERAK EYES A
EYES