TOP SECRET
DP Note 27/67(A) (Flimsy Draft
decision to reduce the garrison by one major unit should be
reversed.
4.
The Defence and Overseas Policy Committee at their meeting (5)
on the 5th September 1967, agreed it would be dangerous if the
plans for reducing the garrison in the following Spring were to
become known. They further agreed that work on these plans should
therefore be suspended for the time being, although long term plans
to that end should remain in force.
ARMY SHORT TERM PLANNING ISSUES
Reinforcement Battalion
5.
Following your meeting (6) with the Governor of Hong Kong in.
June 1967, you agreed that it would be preferable for the Commander-
in-Chief, as a temporary measure, to reinforce Hong Kong Garrison
with one battalion, bringing the total strength to 73 major units,
rather than as hitherto standing a battalion up and down at
frequent intervals. This was agreed by Political Departments and
you authorised (7) the Commander-in-Chief accordingly.
intention was that the battalion would remain in Hong Kong until
after the "double tenth" celebrations in October 1967.
The
6. The Governor of Hong Kong now considers that despite the
present improvement in the internal security situation, the
previous pattern of events may be resumed in December after the
Canton Trade Fair has finished and therefore the reinforcing
battalion should be retained, at least until carly January 1968.
The Commander-in-Chief has concurred with this recommendation and
is planning accordingly, including the retention of the four
additional helicopters in Hong Kong.
Strength of Garrison Throughout 1968
7. The Governor considers it possible that the extra reinforcing
battalion could be needed throughout 1968, and Commander Far East
Land Forces has written to VCGS on the roulement difficulties that
will arise, should this course be necessary. The problem stems
Notes:
5.
6.
7.
OPD (67) 29th Mtg
Cos 53rd Mtg/67
COSSEA 57
2
TOP SECRET
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.