CO537-(205_1260-1262) — Page 572

0008 7

in Hong Kong should be

and that steps should be taken

adequate maintenance.

n the formation of a gendarmario

hould be held in abeyance.

zú probable that the shortage

er is likely to necessitate the commitments which have hitherto

5 inescapable, an overall review of the practicability of forming Colonial territories to replace,

art, cur regular garrisons.

D..TIONS

invited to arrange with the

1€ move, as soon as practicable,

igule to halta and of two

Kang.

nvited to provide maintenance six L.O.T.'a which are to .ong.

ex is despatched to S...C.S.E.A.

1

cm

Ref.:

THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES

CO 537/1261

1

2

restrictions Further information is given in the enclosed Terms and Conditions of supply of National Archives' lefel

Please note that this copy is supp, nd subject to the National Archives' terms and conditions and that your use of it may be subject to copyright

From:- Cabinet Office

ANNEX

DRAFT TELEGRAM

To:-

3.4.C.3.3...

00088

COSSEA

1.

From Chiefs of Staff.

October, 1946.

Reference recommendations of South East Asia Defence Committee forwardel unler your 5.B...0.0.0. 747 and 762.

2. We agree that it would be desirable to maintain the garrison at its oxisting strength until the police force

We understand, however, becomes fully re-established in April.

that negoti: tions which are proceeding to extend the stay

If this is the of 150 1.3.F. Erigalo may not be successful. case you should make such tempor-ry arrangements as you consider necessary in the light or the situation in Hong Kong and elsewhere in your Comand as we are unable to supply the short term replacement.

3. We propose to rave 5 Jomanio Frigade to Moltn as soon as practiesile, 1..ordly making possible the provision from elsewhere of tin Tritish Infantry battalions which, together with n fil regiment, ill form the garrison of

you should confirm that you Hong Kong after April, 1947. can rovile the ri 1 periment and cermark an Infantry Brigade as a reserve from your on resources.

4.

Six L.C.1. (L) now in Hong Kong are lease-lent craft We agree, and must be returned to American authorities.

however, that six L.c.7.'s shall be retained in reserve

at Hong Kong. The question of the provision of maintenance personnel is being taken up by the imiralty.

-6-

Ref.

CO 537/1261

THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES

i

restrictions. Further information is given in the enclosed Terms and Conditions of supply of National Archives

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