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From: G.H. Q. Far East Land Forces

ΤΟ : Ministry of Defence, London

IZ 2536 TOO 311100GH (310430A)

TOR 010645A

Info High Commissioner in Federation of Malaya

Governor Hong Kong

Commander, British Forces in Hong Kong

SEACOS 959

31st August 1949

From FEDSEC.

1.

For Chiefs of Staff from British Defence Co-ordination Committee, Far East.

In conjunction with the Commander British Forces

in Hong Kong we have reviewed the problem of the defence of Hong Kong against internal unrest or external aggression.

2.

We do not consider that a full-scale attack could be mounted until mid-October but internal unrest might start earlier.

In spite of the air and sea superiority which we enjoy we are not satisfied that we will have sufficient troops on the ground. The troops now in the Colony and required for direct defence will not complete training to the standard desired until December. It is most important these units should not be diverted from this their primary task to deal with internal disorders. Moreover internal security operations call for careful reconnaissance and preparation.

4. We may require to take the following steps and request your approval to them being taken if and as considered necessary by the Defence Co-ordination Committee.

(A) To move one infantry battalion of 2nd Guards Brigade from Malaya to Hong Kong at short notice after 15th September if internal unrest appears imminent to avoid interrupting the training of troops required for direct defence.

(B) At any time cfter 15th September if direct attack on Hong Kong seems probable to put the remainder of 2nd Guards Brigade Group at 10 days notice to leave Malaya.

DS 834/1/124 20m 6/49 CL

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