LAM
00253
of Staff.
Kong.
No. 58/2 dated
war is unlikely during the
at Hong Kong is indefensible :session of the Chinese main- re do not consider that China
any rate at present.
be maintained as a peace-time
be judged in the light of the
equirements.
r of an external attack
ncluding control of the
stige, and as a deterrent ions.
itments and need for economy
), we note that in your
the most likely form of ation of agents into the
unrust. We agree with this rruption of food and other well be carried out at the hreats a well-trained police n a large garrison. The
ements is being dealt with as olonial Office.
that an attack by an
nese with some air
un a remote possibility
quate warning of any
son with H.M. Embassy esirable. We agree
to form a Joint
e, including civil
employment of reliable
ng from the mainland.
Please note that this copy is suppl
Further information s
restrictions. Further
CO 537/1260
THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES
sver in the enclosed Terms and Conditions of supply of National Archives' reaflet
o the National Archives' terms and conditions and that your use of it may be subject to copyngi
00254
5.
Our estimate of Reference paragraph 2(c) and (d).
It is peace-time carrison for Hong Kong is one Brigade. hoped that one Division less one Brigade will be stationed
One of these brigades would in Malaya probably until 1949. be made available as reinforcement for you in the event of an attack appearing likely.
6.
We consider that all Naval requirements can be met from the B.P.F. Formation of local defence flotillas and retention of minesweeping craft once waters of colony have been swept clear of mines are not considered necessary.
7. R.A.F. strength at Hong Kong is part of total allocated to Far East to be disposed between Burma, Malaya and
We do not consider increase in Hong Kong by A.C.S.E.A. overall strength in Far East is justifiod. approach A.C.S.E.A. giving your requirements.
Request your
8. Colonial Office are seeking Trensury approval to reinstitute and form Hong Kong Volunteer Forces.
9.
In anticipation of Cabinet approval for garrison of one brigade for Hong Kong, you should use this as a planning figure in drawing up plans for re-building accommodation.
necessary
I
-14-
N
CO 537/1260
THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES
In
restrictions. Further information is given in the enclosed Terms and Conditions of supply of National Archives' leaflet
e note that this copy is supplied subject to the National Archives' terms and conditions and that your use of it may be subject to copyrigh
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