TNAG-0476-FCO40-541-Strength-of-garrison-in-Hong-Kong-1974 — Page 75

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(iv)

consequent effects on British and NATO security.

The effects on the Southern flank would be

militarily less, but could generate even more

political heat than in the case of the Northern

flank.

British standing.

To the extent we were seen

to be the cause of the foregoing troubles we

should encounter the opposition of our allies,

including the Americans, not only in the defence

field but more widely. Our bargaining power

would be eroded and our position vis à vis the

other members of the Community would be made

more difficult.

Industrial implications

116. The immediate industrial implications of reductions to the

First level are set out in paragraph 9 of Annex M, in terms of

jobs or job -opportunities lost and the firms and industries affected.

It has not been possible to examine the net effects on employment

and the industries initially affected in the time available;

discussions with the departments concerned are proceeding.

- 65.

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