2
the Malay Regiment to release other forces for service in Hong
Kong should be examined urgently by the War Office, who have been
invited to do this at once.
(h) Governor, Hong Kong, advised by the Naval Commander-in-
Chief, should be asked to prepare appreciation on how best to
prevent illegal entry of refugees and others by sea. Naval
Commander-in-Chief is being asked to give utmost assistance.
this connection it should be borne in mind that the patrolling of
coast lines would not, it is understood, be a normal R.N. role.
(In
3. C.O.S. additionally concluded that A.A. Battery of
Hong Kong Defence Force should, when formed, be adequate to deal
with air threats to Colony, but as unit is unlikely to be ready
until late 1950 War Office are examining what interim arrangements
can be made.
C.0.S.
4. Views of XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX are being conveyed to
Commanders-in-Chief's Committee, Far East, in similar terms.
C.O.S. and I understand that above conclusions will be discussed
by B.D.C.C., Far East, at forthcoming meeting. Please telegraph
summary of views of yourself and Commanders-in-Chief after meeting.
5. You will observe that C.0.S. have so far only considered,
in view of its especial urgency, Hong Kong aspect of strategic
implications of situation in China. They expect to hold further
meeting on 17th January to consider more general aspects, and further
conclusions will be telegraphed earliest possible.
6.
Governor of Hong Kong please hand copy to Paskin.
!
SECER.