SECRET
7 May 1991
ние с63 //
Foreign & Commonwealth
Office
London SWŁA 2AH
Telephone: 071-
M Howard Esq SEC(O)C
Ministry of Defence
LONDON
Dear Martin,
Redacted Under FOI Exemption Sec 27(1)
HONG KONG GARRISON: WITHDRAWAL OF THE FIRST BATTALION
1. The Governor of Hong Kong has informed us that the CBF Hong Kong has sought formal agreement to a reduction in infantry force levels in Hong Kong from four battalions to three battalions in October 1992. This reduction is to be effected by the amalgamation of the First and Second Gurkha Rifles. We understand that HQBF Hong Kong proposes to inform those concerned this summer, after you have decided terms of settlement for personnel affected and whether or not the amalgation should be presented as part of a package covering the future of the brigade of Gurkhas.
2.
The Governor has no dəfficulty with the planned reduction in the number of battalions: but has stressed the need to advise the Chinese of our plans before they become public. Tony Galsworthy, Senior British Representative on the Joint Liaison Group agrees and has reminded us
Although we do not accept that the Chinese have the right to be consulted, there would be much benefit in discussing matters with them in advance.
3. The Governor sees no need to link this with the overall review of the Garrison Withdrawal Plan timed for 1992. Nor does he see the need at this stage to link the withdrawal of the first battalion with the subsequent withdrawal plans between 1993 and 1997.
4.
I should be most grateful if you would advise me on how you see the timing of this going forward so that we may plan our discussions with the Chinese in the JLG. Will the withdrawal of this battalion form any part of the review paper which I understand you are about to issue?
ROZAWL
SECRET
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