083/4806
(7.1.)
SIT,
Uzzont.
48
64
July, 1914.
(about 2,300 men)
With reference to your letter 16741 of 19th Kay
1914 and other correspondence relating to the question of
the withdrawal of the additional Indish Troops, temporarily
stationed at Hong Kong, I am eeumanded by the Army Gouncil
to inform you that it is now necessary to decide definitely
whether the garrison of hong kong shall be reduced to its
normal strength in the immediate future er mhall continue
to be maintained at its present figures.
It is not possible, under the conditions existing
in the Indian Army, to keep these troops out of India
and as they vozo continuously for more than three years;
sent to hang Xong in January and February 1912, they must be seat back to India in any event not later than the beginning of 1918, other Indim units being sent out to hong kong te
relieve them unless the garrison is reduned.
The Govern=
ment of India have asked to be informed not later than the
15th
Under Sear etary of itate,
Colonial Offies.