TNAG-0540-FCO40-635-Strength-of-garrison-in-Hong-Kong-1975 — Page 64

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could certainly apply to paragraph 8(b), (c) and (d), all of which involve change in or a breakdown of current Chinese policies. It is however reasonable to expect some forewarning if the situations in 8(b), (c) and (d) are likely to occur.

BASIC CHANGES SINCE 1967

10. The last time the garrison was fully deployed in support of the civil power was in 1967 during the cultural revolution. On this occasion it was reinforced from 6 2/3 to 7 2/3 major units. The emergency in Hong Kong followed demonstrations in Macau resulting in the capitulation of the Macau Government to various demands made on it by CPG supporters. Ever since the Macau Government has been in a position of tutelage.

11.

Though the riots in Hong Kong stemmed from an industrial dispute, they developed into an attempt to repeat the achievement in Macau. The Party in China was in disarray and for a time mob action in Hong Kong was supported by funds from China, by demonstrations, shooting and violence on the border and by diplomatic and mob action in Peking. The CPG did not send in arms or explosives, although there was considerable use of home made bombs. As the Party re-asserted control in China, and as it became apparent that the objectives of the rioters in Hong Kong were not being obtained, and that the population had rallied to the Hong Kong Coverument, Peking gradually called off its cadres.

12.

The main political difference since 1967 is that, with the establishment of full diplomatic relations, Sino/British relations have gradually improved and Chinese acceptance of the status quo in Hong Kong has been more clearly defined and stated in Peking and understood by cadres in Hong Kong.

There has been an increase in resources since 1967 to deal with threats to law and order:

13.

a.

An increase in the strength of the regular Police from just below 11, 000 to 14, 500, The strength is expected to rise to just over 15, 000 by the end of 1975 and to just under 16,000 by the end of 1976.

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