CO537-(205_1260-1262) — Page 21

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Mr. Sabben-Clare

If the War Office are seriously thinking about proposing the withdrawal of all British troops from Hong Kong, it is, in my view, very desirable that we should have an opportunity to comment before

I would the matter goes to the Chiefs of Staff. strongly urge, therefore, that Colonel Nangle should be asked to let us Bee the paper in draft form.

I think that we should do what we can to stop the question of the withdrawal of troops from Hong Kong being raised now. If it is raised, we

ought to try to get it deferred as long as possible. There are not only the political and internal security aspects to be considered, but also the financial one. If a force of armed constabulary or gendarmerie has to be raised to replace the military forces, the cost would presumably fall on Hong Kong.

34. Was office. eftel. 55) for.

by warden

11.7.46.

Landfeces Hittag - 4.7.46.

40. Was voffice. c/ Tel. 20/5D1 of.

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41 442

With reference to my Minute of the 4th July and subsequent minutes, I have obtained from Group Captain Stapleton drafts of two Papers, one submitted by the War Office and the other by the Air Ministry. I have placed them on the File (0.0.8. (46) 187(0) and C.0.8.(46) 193(0)).

Vice

I understand that the/Chiefs of Staff considered these Papers this morning. The War Office agreed to accept the Air Ministry Paper in substitution for their own, so this latter Paper should be considered the one under consideration.

The Admiralty representative at the Vice Chiefs of staff meeting, absolutely opposed to both the War Office and the Air Ministry and considered that a British garrison should be maintained in Hong Kong.

Eventually, I understand, it was decided to defer consideration of the matter until the Defence Committee had taken a Paper dealing with the

Manpower/

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