TOP SECRET
IMMEDIATE
J.I.C./767/49
COPY NO.
19
94001/28
MR. W.G. HAY TER
D.N.I.
D.M. I.
A.C.A. S. (I)
GENERAL SIR STEWART MENZIES
SIR PERCY SILLITOE
DIRECTOR J.I.B.
MR. G.F. SEEL, COLONIAL OFFICE
Copies to:-
Secretary J.S./J.T.I.C. Secretary, J.P.S.
Joint Intelligence Staff.
CHINESE THREAT TO HONG KONG
The Defence Committee, at their meeting on 27th April' invited the Chiefs of Staff to prepare a fresh appreciation of the threat that was likely to develop against Hong Kong. In addition, the appreciation is to examine whether the Colony can be defended against the estimated threat by the present garrison together with the planned re-inforcement, and if not, what military action is recommended.
2.
In anticipation of instructions, the Joint Planning Staff have, in consultation with the Joint Intelligence Committee, been asked to prepare a draft report for the Chiefs of Staff to Ministers.
3.
Since the Government will wish to state their future policy towards Hong Kong in the near future, the appreciation is required by the Chiefs of Staff early next week. The Joint Intelligence Staff have accordingly prepared for consideration at your meeting tomorrow, Friday, 29th April, the attached draft annex which it is proposed to incorporate in the Joint Planning Staff report.
Ministry of Defence, S.W.1.
28th April, 1949.
(Signed) J.K. GARDINER
D.0.(49) 12th Meeting. So
750