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CONFIDENTIAL
Is the continuing South East Asia presence to be at the expense of Hong Kong?
No. Force levels there will remain substantially as at present.
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But wasn't an increase planned?
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In the context of the previous Government's plans to withdraw forces from South East Asia, it had been intended to make some increases in the size of the forces in Hong Kong. In the light of a review of the position generally, including the changed situation which will follow from our continued presence in South East Asia, it has been decided not to go ahead with certain of the increases previously being considered. The Colony's force levels will, however, remain under constant review to ensure that the forces based on Hong Kong are sufficient to fulfil our responsibilities there.
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Wasn't one of the increases planned an infantry battalion and is this now to be foregone?
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This was an increase being considered but it is not one with which we now think it necessary to persist.
Apart from the decisions to retain forces in South East Asia, what other factors have made you change your mind?
We made the usual assessment of the situation, the risk involved in yarious courses of action and reinforcement capability. Our view is that it is sufficient to plan on retaining the present force levels.)
Will the battalion contributed to the Five Power arrangements be held in readiness to reinforce Hong Kong?
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No.
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What about plans for new building which were being made?
These are being reviewed and will take account of the decision not to increase the Army garrison.
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