TNAG-0480-FCO40-545-Strength-of-garrison-in-Hong-Kong-1974 — Page 197

SECRET

3.0.

The Army's re-equipment plans would be cut substantially,

but with the least possible effect upon its front-line capability

and quality in the orucial areas of NATO. The Government attaches

great importance to the negotiations between NATO and the Warsaw

Pact on mutual and balanced force reductions and is committed to

seeking through these negotiations undiminished security for both

sides at a lower level of forces in the area of Central Europe

which the negotiations cover. We hope that the negotiations will be successful in achieving this objective, and that-a-perl-of

the outcome-como-roduction in Ditish forcos in the area will be

possible. We do not propose, however, in advance of mutual and

balanced force reductions, to seek any reduction in our Brussels

Treaty obligation to maintain BAOR at a level of 55,000. In

adjusting the size and shape of the Army to meet the new framework

of priorities, the Government will aim at a carefully planned

restructuring which will take full account of the regimental system

and the loyalties and traditions it enshrines. The Brigade of

Gurkhas will be retained primarily for service in Hong Kong.

We shall maintain the size and roles of the Territorial and Army

Volunteer Reserve.

11.

In the case of the Royal Air Force, we intend to preserve,

and where necessary improve, the combat air forces committed to

NATO on the Continent and in the UK, and to continue with the MRCA

collaborative programme, though we may have to make some reductions

planned

in the rate of deliveries over the period. However, in accordance

in the rate

with the revised tasks envisaged, the RAF transport force would be cut by a half and the planned helicopter force by a quarter. Some rednotion would also be made in maritime patrol aircraft and in the