(HONG KONG: THE GARRISON)
SECRET
1.
2.
I agree with the advice and draft telegram.
But it does seem to be extraordinary that the "65% share", which Hong Kong think they are paying, of the full cost of the garrison amounts to more than the total cost of the garrison. I expect the MOD accountants would, if asked, produce arguments to justify this but I wonder how well-founded the arguments are. I think this point should be brought to the Secretary of State's attention when we submit on Mr Rifkind's letter.
3.
Subject to the Minister of State's views, I do not think we need to trouble the Secretary of State at this stage.
John Cole.
12 March 1993
Sir John Coles
CC:
Sir T Daunt
Mr Hum
Mr Lever
Mr Donnelly, NPDD Mr Davies, FED
SECRET