TNAG-0477-FCO40-542-Strength-of-garrison-in-Hong-Kong-1974 — Page 39

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with a reinforcement capability against those of a garrison closer

to the present size but without such a capability, taking into

account cost, military viability and the wish of Ministers that

fores the garrison should be paid for by the Hong Kong Government.

6. We would welcome your early advice, in consultation as

necessary with CBF Hong Kong, on these alternative garrison

concepts and on the importance of a reinforcement capability.

Informal military advice has been that without an assured

capability for rapid reinforcement the existing force level of

63 major teeth arm units is of the order required; but that if a

reinforcement capability were retained this could be reduced to

54 (together, in each case, with appropriate support).

At each

level there would also be 5 RN patrol craft and 8 RAF helicopters,

again with support. We would welcome your comments on these

force levels; and also your views on any other areas in which

you consider economies could be made.

grateful for your advice on the likely attitude of the Hong Kong

Government to meeting the costs of the garrison; if you judge

that they would not be prepared to meet the whole cost of the

Finally we should be

levels of forces indicated above, we should welcome your assessment

Rever

forces

on the size of garrison' for which they would be prepared to pay.

or aftermathiely

which Hoy

7. The Hong Kong study is required to be submitted to the

Steering Committee of senior officials by the beginning of

>

September;

appreciated.

and your comments by Friday 23 August would be greatly

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