TNAG-0537-FCO40-632-Strength-of-garrison-in-Hong-Kong-1975 — Page 89

CONFIDENTIAL

2ND DRAFT

5.

During 1973 and 1974, Headquarters United Kingdom Land Forces

undertook a review of the TAVR to ascertain, within currently

defined roles and resources, the scope for improvements in organisa-

tion and functioning. The review committee recommended improvements

in the terms and conditions of service of the TAVR and in the

organisation of certain units. Many of the recommendations have

already been implemented and those involving the re-organisation of

units will become effective during 1975.

6.

Ĺ 7

The TAVR reached a record strength of 59,500 during 1972. This

had declined to on 1 January 1975, but it is hoped that this

Spring's recruitment campaign will lead to an improvement in the

manning situation.

THE ULSTER DEFENCE REGIMENT

7. The part-time Ulster Defence Regiment forms an integral part

of the security forces in Northern Ireland and its growing profess-

ionalism has enabled it to play an increasingly important role in

anti-terrorist operations in support of the Regular Army.

8.

The recruitment of women to the Regiment began in August 1973.

The women's primary task is searching women for explosives and

weapons, but they are also undertaking administrative work. This

has enabled more men to be released for operational duties.

9. The overall strength of the Regiment on 1 January 1975 was CJ, including [ 7 women.

Ľ

[

During 1973 and 1974 ]

members of the Regiment were killed as a direct result of terrorist

activity, making a total of E

formation in 1970. 7

deaths since the Regiment's

ROYAL NAVY AND ROYAL MARINES

RESERVE FORCES

10.

The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Reserve Forces consist of the

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CONFIDENTIAL