TNAG-0060-FCO40-96-Strength-of-Hong-Kong-garrison-1968 — Page 108

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ANNEX A to DP 9/68 Final)(Continued)

25. The movement of a further three battalions, whilst dependent upon the same availability of air routes, diplomatic clearance and no simultaneous major air transport operations, is loss also dependent on the warning period. A second battalion, providing it is brought to 24 hours notice when the docision is made to despatch the first battalion, could follow up and arrive in Hong Kong within a further 48 hours Westabout, or 36 hours using the CENTO

route. Should it be necessary to continue the reinforcemont build-

up to a total of four battalions, the additional two battalions would be despatched as circumstances required, and could be deployed within 8 days Wostabout or 7 days using the CENTO route, from the

time of first take off of the first battalion, [The pre-stocking

of unit equipment in Hong Kong is a pre-requisite for reinforce-

ment within these timings.]

26. Thus, in theory, the immediate reserve battalion could be

provided from the United Kingdom if all the above conditions can be met, and on the assumption that sufficient warning of a deteriorating situation is received. However, we are conscious of the rapidity with which an internal security situation in the Colony has developed in the past and could do so again in

the future. Prompt exercise of authority by the Governor in the

deployment of security forces is a major factor in preventing the expansion and exploitation of such incidents. With the police

force barely able to keep pace with increased responsibilities

arising from the growth and redistribution of the population,

the timely arrival of reinforcements will become even more importante

27. It would be imprudent to assume now that we will be able, in some three or four years hence, to rely on all the factors

emerging in our favour and enabling us to guarantee to deploy

the immediate reservo battalion in time. For these reasons

we must plan for the permanent army garrison to consist ultim- ately of 73 major units. - it would be irresponsible to accept anything legs. The initial deployment of this garrison in the

event of an emergency would be:

a.

Internal security duties in the Now Territories and

external defence on the frontior: three infantry battalions and 13 supporting units.

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