TNAG-0252-FCO40-288-Strength-of-Hong-Kong-garrison-1970 — Page 19

15.

SECRET UK EYES ONLY

ANNEX A TO

DOP 535/70 (Draft)

(Concluded

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that:

a.

CINCFE's proposal to withdraw 42 Cdo Gp, HQ 3 Cdo Bde Gp

and A Sqn 14/20 H, starting from 1 Apr 71 is acceptable.

b.

The withdrawal of 40 Cdo Gp should be delayed until after

its relief in late Oct 71 by a UK infantry battalion. The

withdrawal of the families of 40 Cdo Gp could be delayed until

the first 2 weeks in Sep 71.

c.

From 1 Oct 71, 40 Cdo in Singapore could be at 12 days

notice to move in an LPH as part of the covering force for

the Gulf withdrawal.

d. After relief, on or about 1 Nov 71, 40 Cdo Gp should

embark in an LPH and move to cover the Gulf withdrawal, if

required. If not required, it could move direct to UK, but in

this case special arrangements would be necessary to cover the

gap between their arrival in the UK and the availability of

accommodation.

e.

It would be necessary to delay the move of 1/2 GR from

Singapore to Hong Kong until after the arrival in Singapore of

a UK battalion group in late Oct 71.

f.

CINCFE would be required to make alternative command

arrangements after the withdrawal of HQ 3 Cdo Bde Gp.

g. The Singapore and Malaysian Governments should be informed

by Jan 71, at the latest, of the intention to modify the

existing Far East rundown plan.

A - 6

SECRET UK EYES ONLY