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say that reinforcements were being despatched forthwith and that details would be announced later. It was true to say that a force of all arms was being prepared for Hong Kong, as the land reinforcements included artillery and armour as well as infantry. Naval and air reinforcements were also being sent. The decision seemed to depend to the weight attached by Ministers to the various political considerations. It would be acceptable from the military standpoint for the Minister of Defence to state if questioned in debate that it was not intended to reduce our strength in Malaya.
THE COMMITTEE:
Took note that the Minister of Defence · would take into account the above points when discussing the matter at a meeting with the Prime Minister later in the day.
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