TNAG-0478-FCO40-543-Strength-of-garrison-in-Hong-Kong-1974 — Page 146

CODE 18-77

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Reference

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5. There are strong operational reasons for retaining the battalion in Hong Kong. The troops are acclimatised, have a knowledge of the colony, particularly the POLMIL organization which is unique to Hong Kong and there is no delay in their arrival. These are most important factors in a sudden IS situation. Furthermore, for either the Eastabout or Westabout routes diplomatic clearance will be required for overflight - and could always be refused; experience has shown that the use of civil airfields by service aircraft cannot be assumed (eg Gander on the Westabout route) Thus reliance on civil airfields increases the danger of political frustration of reinforcement plans.

6.

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The Hong Kong garrison should therefore remain at the level of 5 patrol craft 62/3 teeth arm units, 8 Wessex helicopters with the appropriate support and thus the Eastabout reinforcement route need not be retained.

A -2-

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