TNAG-0170-FCO40-206-British-Trade-Commissioner-1969 — Page 150

SING TAO MATO Po

((SITORIAL),

Hong Kong does not need more

British garrison.

15-10-68

Since the British Labour Governmont's announcement on its withdrawal of British garrinon east of the Bunn and the Lemnsfer of Britiμl garrison platIoned in Malayala/stugapin o Mae Hong Hong, propla here became very suspicious over this "offer", It was hinted that Hong Kong would be responsible for the expenditure of the British' garrison in 1971 by Mr. Boyden when he left Hong Kong.

At present, Hong Kong already has to spend $80 million on

So there the garrison which is unable to defend any foriegn attacks. is no cause for and absolutely unnecessary for an increase of garrison at all. If the increase of garrison is for a prompt rescue for Malaysia/Singapore, then they should be responsible for the expenditure and not the Hong Kong people. If the increase is not for this purpose, may we ask the U.K. Government that on what basis do you predict that Hong Kong will need more "military protection" by 1971? If you have basis for your prediction, please tell the Hong Kong people so that wo can train our own soldiers for self-defence. Money, made by the "blood and sweat" of the Hong Kong people, should be spent by them in whatever way they like.

It is true that the $80 million spent on the garrison is not a complete waste because it has offered employment chances for our workers and business for our merchants. Eut the key to the problem remains: What are the functions of a British garrison in Hong Kong?

Of course, the garrison contributed considerably last year during the disturbance but as Hong Kong is a Britich colony, it is the

The U.K. Government claimed duty of the U.K. Government to protect it. that she would send forces to Malaysia/Singapore should the situation calls for. Malaysia/Singapore are no longer Eritish colonies but the U.K. Government is still willing to help, then if the garricon withdraws from Hong Kong, the U:K. Government would alco help and send her forces here should emergency arices. So why should we pay for the garrison? But, Hong Kong is willing to pay for the expenditure of cending forces

The $80 million is now spent on to llong Kong during the emergency. "unproductive basic" and it should be used for welfare fundo on our people.

According to Mr. Gregg, the Director of Education, the Government is spending $36 million on scholarships and bursaries for students. If a poor student needs $1,000 for his education a year, then $80 million would help 80,000 students.

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