TNAG-0253-FCO40-289-Strength-of-Hong-Kong-garrison-1970 — Page 24

But

there was a substantial external element involved and that it

was beyond the capacity of Malaysia and Singapore to handle it,

then we would certainly accept that this was the kind of

situation to which the consultative commitment applies.

let us not get too embroiled in these depressing hypothetical

questions. If the Five Power defence arrangements are

successful, as I am confident, they will be, in providing a

deterrent to any aggression and in enhancing confidence in the

arca, the kind of situation in which we might have to get

involved will not come about.7

QB.5 DO YOU THINK BRITAIN'S CONTRIBUTION IS ADEQUATE FOR

THE DEFENCE OF SUCH A LARGE REGION?

Britain's contribution should not be viewed in isolation.

In addition to the forces which we will be providing, Malaysia

and Singapore will have substantial land forces. Australia and

New Zealand will also be making a land force contribution.

The air defence forces which Malaysia, Singapore and Australia

will be providing will be fully adequate for the task to be

met. In short, I am confident that the Five Power defence

arrangements, taken as a whole, will be well able to achieve

the purpose that we all intend.

L