TNAG-0539-FCO40-634-Strength-of-garrison-in-Hong-Kong-1975 — Page 13

CONFIDENTIAL

CONFIDENT IAL

12. From early December detailed consultations have been

conducted with our NATO Allies in accordance with the procedures

laid down by the Alliance on such matters. After an extensive

political and military assessment of the Government's proposals

within NATO, the Alliance's views and suggestions have been

conveyed to us. The Government has carefully considered the points

made by our non-NATO Allies and partners in its consultations with

them since the 3 December announcement.

13. Our partners and associates outside NATO have noted our

proposals with some regrets but have in general recognised the

economic imperatives which led us to make them. Detailed discus-

sions on the best way of effecting the withdrawals and reductions

are in some cases still proceeding.

Broadly

however the effect of the consultations has been to confirm the

proposals announced on 3 December.

14. Our NATO Allies have expressed sympathetic understanding of

our economic difficulties. They have welcomed our assurance

that NATO commitments will remain the first charge on our defence

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CONFIDENTIAL

CONFIDENTIAL