TNAG-0063-FCO40-99-Defence-extra-costs-arising-from-the-internal-security-situa-1968 — Page 103

SECRET

HONG KONG TELEGRAM NO. 1320 TO COMMONWEALTH OFFICE

2

W

I am sure you will agree that if we are confronted with influx of several thousands of refugees, similar to that which occurred in 1962, we shall not be able to meet them with force. We intend to try our best to prevent them from crossing the border by all means other than use of fire arms. But when this fails there may be no alternative but to receive and accommodate them as best we can. The substantial obstacle we are now building is an essential feature of these control measures.

I

7. Commander British Forces has made the necessary arrangements to obtain the wire etc. from military sources. We propose using civilian labour for the erection of the obstacle under the direction of military personnel. We do not yet know the cost of these measures but they are likely to be substantial. We shall now be considering locally the extent to which Hong Kong Government Funds should be used for these measures. Our present view is that they are defensive arrangements designed to meet an external threat and that therefore the charge should be one which this Government should not have to meet.

0.A.G.

DEPARTMENTAL DISTRIBUTION

C.0. H.K. & W.I.D."C"

I. & G.D.

F.E.P.D.

Consular Dept.

News Dept.

J.I.P.G.

J.I.R.

F.O. F.E.D.

Police Adviser

Overseas Labour Adviser

D.I.S: M.O.D.

PPPPP n

SECRET

Sent 1212Z/ 29 August Read 1228Z/ 29 August

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