TNAG-0059-FCO40-95-Strength-of-Hong-Kong-garrison-1968 — Page 96

102. M. Carter

THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HER BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT

The circulation of this paper has been strictly limited.

(54)

It is issued for the personal use of Mr. Certes. Commmeneltt offici

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DP Note 27/67(A)(Flimsy Draft)

16th October 1967

CHIEFS OF STAFF COMMITTEE

DEFENCE PLANNING STAFF

1.

SHORT AND LONG TERM FACTORS AFFECTING

PLANS FOR THE HONG KONG GARRISON

INTRODUCTION

In accordance with instructions (1) we have prepared a note on a report (2) by the Commander-in-Chief Far East on his discussions

with the Governor and the Commander British Forces, Hong Kong, on

the short and long term factors affecting plans for the garrison.

2. The Commander-in-Chief's recommendations, whilst not materially

affecting naval and air forces, raise some complex issues from the

Army's point of view. In this note we do not attempt at this

stage to examine issues in too great a detail, but rather to draw

attention to the broad aspects of the particular problems arising

from the recommendations.

Government Policy - Strength of Hong Kong Garrison

3. At their meeting on the 19th December 1966, the Defence and

Overseas Policy Committee decided (3) that the garrison should be

reduced by one major unit. Subsequently, in June 1967, you agreed

a Submission (4) to the Secretary of State to the effect that in

the light of recent events in the Colony, all preparations for the

withdrawal of one major unit should be suspended at once, and the

Notes:

1.

2.

COS 1864/11/10/67

SEACOS 153

3. OPD (66) 49th Mtg/Item 4

4.

COS 1489/2/6/67

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