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DEFENCE AND PUBLIC ORDER
CONSULTATIONS WITH THE CHINESE
Recent meetings of Joint Liaison Group included discussion on future arrangements for defence and public order in Hong Kong. This has been supplemented by discussion between experts.
Main issues are provisional planning for the gradual run-down of the British garrison; planned expansion of Hong Kong police to take over certain tasks from the garrison; and arrangements for a Chinese garrison to assure Hong Kong's defence after 1997.
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Discussions have made good progress, and are continuing.
RUNDOWN OF THE GARRISON
Have briefed the Chinese on our provisional planning for the phased and gradual withdrawal of the British garrison.
No firm decisions on withdrawals have been made.
Chinese Government have expressed their understanding of our provisional plans.
Our overriding concern will be to safeguard Hong Kong's security and stability right up to 1997.
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EXPANSION OF HONG KONG POLICE
We have reached agreement in principle with Chinese
Government that Royal Hong Kong police force should undergo limited expansion. This will enable police to discharge their responsibility for maintenance of public order before and after 1997, including the prevention of illegal immigration.
Existing Auxiliary Air Force will be reorganised to form civil Flying Services Department with responsibility for providing Hong Kong Government with necessary flying services.
PLA GARRISON POST 1997
Chinese Government have explained to us how they see role of the Chinese military forces to be stationed in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region after 1997.
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These will have responsibility for defence in accordance with provisions of the Joint Declaration.
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