SECRETARY OF STATE
ḤKA 063/
H
06 MAY 1993
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FA
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Sec CNS MA/CGS
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MINISTRY OF DEFENCE
WHITEHALL LONDON SW1A 2HB
Telephone 01-21821123
in fcbotts c. In Mans 2114
This is the lette referred to i tabe meeting weliver the governa s
MO 6/19/1J
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REGISTRY Action Taken
Dear
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Head of Sec(0)(C)
Press Secretary GF(Pol)1
FCO (Hong Kong Dept)
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53
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M Mornets M Bunke
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THE FUTURE OF THE GARRISON
Produce Commerl
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When we met in Hong Kong in January, we agreed it would be useful to set down the broad policy and operational framework underlying our detailed plans for the run-down and withdrawal of the military garrison, which are being reviewed this year.
I therefore enclose a short paper, which has been agreed by the Chiefs of Staff, which addresses the role of the garrison; how that relates to its minimum viable size; the manner and timing of the final withdrawal; finance and the Defence Costs Agreement; and public handling. The key judgement in the paper is the choice between retaining a garrison with a viable military role, based around two infantry battalions, and one which would be largely symbolic, based around a single battalion. I and my Ministerial colleagues have considered carefully the case for reducing quickly to a symbolic presence, but have concluded that in the light of continuing uncertainty about relations with China in the immediate future, it would be prudent to plan on the basis of a garrison centred on two battalions until 1996 as recommended by the Chiefs of Staff. The reduction from three battalions to two would take place in the latter half of 1994. It would be helpful if you could
Rt Hon Christopher Patten
Governor
Hong Kong
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