TNAG-0334-FCO40-370-Visits-of-Secretary-of-State-for-Foreign-and-Commonwealth-Af-1972 — Page 145

CONFIDENTIAL

(4) A substantial proportion of the contribution is in

respect of capital works which will revert to the

(5)

Hong Kong Government when no longer required by

Her Majesty's Government.

The amount agreed upon for the Colony's contribution

represents no greater proportion of the total costs of

the garrison than did the previous contribution

negotiated in 1966. It is considered to be a fair and

reasonable contribution in all the circumstances.

(6) Even after allowing for the Colony's contribution

towards the costs of the garrison, Her Majesty's Government

still have to meet the remainder of the costs which

amount to some £18 million per annum. This represents

a very substantial form of aid to Hong Kong; particularly

since it may be categorically stated and emphasised that

the garrison is in Hong Kong solely for Hong Kong's

benefit. Were it not for Her Majesty's Government's

responsibilities towards the Colony there would be no

garrison stationed there at all.

2

CONFIDENTIAL