SECRET
14 March 1978
But
3. These two points will remain valid whatever happens. if the Sultan refuses to negotiate or negotiations break down, then you could also use the answers suggested in your telegram no. 154, subject to the following modifications. We would prefer the first answer to read "The British Armed Forces are organized and trained to effect rapid overseas reinforce- ment. Units are earmarked for this purpose at all times". The first sentence of the second answer we suggest should read "It might take slightly longer".
4. To answer the question on the training facilities in Brunei, you could say "HMG would hope that Brunei would continue to allow these facilities to be used, since we believe that this could be of advantage to Brunei, as well as to the UK and the troops stationed in Hong Kong. If the Brunei training facilities were no longer available, the MOD in London would be responsible for making alternative arrangements". Finally, in answer to the last question, we would prefer "This is a hypothe- tical question. The MOD in London are considering their future requirements".
5.
I hope that these suggestions will provide you with all the answers you need. We shall, of course, ensure that you are kept in the picture as the situation evolves and if we can give you any more briefing, please let me know.
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DF Murray