TNAG-0179-FCO40-215-Strength-of-Hong-Kong-Garrison-1970 — Page 101

NOTHING TO BE WRITTEN IN THIS MARGIN

W(B)L 51-7406

SECRET

(a) we have sought clarification on the

points raised by the Governor

(b) we consider that the final decision

will need Ministerial endorsement.

to what

But it might be helpful to predje t

extent there are doubts in Hong Kong about the

adequacy of the proposed alternative arrange-

ments, since if these are serious we shall need

to discuss them with the Governor and possibly

present them in some detail to DOPC

BACKGROUND

The unit of R.A.F. fighter aircraft

(Hunters) stationed in Hong Kong was withdrawn

in March 1967 as part of the Defence Review

economies, and air cover has since been pro-

vided by regular and frequent visits of fighters

and other aircraft from Singapore. Upon the

decision being taken to withdraw from Singapore/

Malaysia the Governor proposed that fighter

aircraft should once more be stationed in Hong

Kong as part of the Colony's future garrison

and implied that Hong Kong would find a substan-

tial, if not the greater part, of the cost. In

support of his proposed the Governor argued that

fighter cover is required:

SECRET

/ (a) ...