7.
CONFIDENTIAL
-2-
So far as the security forces are concerned, the troops on the border and elsewhere are still in good heart but are likely to become rapidly bored with no-one to catch. The extra unit, the Royal Welsh Regiment, which has been covering a switch of Gurkha units, is due to come home before Christmas. Provided that there is no sharp increase in II attempts, moves will be made after some weeks to reduce very cautiously the number of troops on anti-illegal duties. The aim would be eventually not to have more than 25% of the garrison on II duties but obviously this must be done carefully in order to avoid giving the Chinese the impression that we are relaxing too much.
8.
The Acting CBF was confident that when this was done the garrison would still have plenty to do. There was a large backlog of IS training to catch up on.
9.
So far, the Police seem to have come out of the exercise rather well. They are handling the checks and other measures discreetly and have not aroused public opposition. They could earn some much-needed bonus points from this. Unlike the Army, they will not get much respite from the new measures; indeed their duties are likely to increase.
10.
Official and security forces in Hong Kong are, of course, keeping their fingers crossed. They believe intending illegals are probably waiting to see how things develop and they are aware that there could be a new influx, but they are reasonably hopeful. Depending on how things go, I think it would be worth considering recommending that a Minister, perhaps Mr Blaker, should send a message of congratulation via the Governor to both the CBF and the Commissioner of Police on the work they have done in recent months. But we would, of course, have to be careful to avoid this appearing complacent.
Дир
RD Clift
4 December 1980
Hong Kong and General Department
cc Mr Morrice/Mr Williamson
1
Mr Donald.
I have slight doubts about
a message to the Army and Police over "Champion"
early stage. The right
agree with купи
at this
5/4/12.
par
on the
back
moment for
would seem to me
when the S. of s. goes next spring.
CONFIDENTIAL
a
"
to be
Antonald 4/12