TNAG-0539-FCO40-634-Strength-of-garrison-in-Hong-Kong-1975 — Page 123

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structures will be simplified by concentrating specialist functions, such as reconnaissance, into one Arm; but the manning of front line

equipments will not be impaired. Notwithstanding these changes we will not, in advance of mutual and balanced force reductions, reduce the forces which we maintain in Germany in accordance with out Brussels Treaty obligations. The Berlin Brigade will be harmonised with the proposed new organisation.

51. In the United Kingdom, the present Headquarters United Kingdom

Land Force (HQUKLF) and District structure will be maintained virtually

as at present, but economies will be made by extending the span of

command to give selected District headquarters the responsibility at

present exercised by the field force formation headquarters in the

United Kingdom. These District headquarters will therefore also become

divisional headquarters. The TAVR is to be maintained at its present

size and is to be more closely integrated with the Regular Army by in-

cluding TAVR units alongside Regular units as part of the new Divisional/

District organisation. Our plans allow for a small proportionate

increase in the number of TAVR units earmarked for reinforcement of

BAOR. Manpower economies are also being sought in Ministry of Defence

headquarters, and in the United Kingdom training organisation and

logistic base.

52. The proposals will enable us to retain all existing regimental

identities in both the Royal Armoured Corps and in the Infantry; to

man broadly the same major equipments within the Royal Artillery, but

with some reductions in the total number of regiments in line with the

new policy of maintaining larger regiments with more guns; and

similarly to reduce regiments of other Arms and Corps, such as the

Corps of Royal Engineers, without significant loss of operational

capability.

53. These changes in structure will enable better use to be made

of manpower throughout the Army and will make possible a

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