TNAG-0544-FCO40-639-Strength-of-garrison-in-Hong-Kong-1975 — Page 142

As for the question of land occupied by the Garrison

for the necessary purpose of Hong Kong's defence, I

should remind those who might otherwise overlook this

that already this year we have announced the release of

six camps, including Chatham Road, Shamahaipo and

Argyle Street. I think that this is a measure of

our willingness to meet the wishes of the Hong Kong

Government wherever possible.

I think I should repeat that HMG's commitment to the

integrity and security of Hong Kong remains unchanged.

We are conscious that a Garrison adequate in military

terms is an important manifestation of this.

I am

glad that agreement has been reached this week on the

future size and probable future cost of the Garrison.

!

But Hong Kong is unique amongst Britain's remaining

dependent territories in that it has been rapidly

developing economically, has considerable international

significance in its own right and for all practical

purposes enjoys economic and financial autonomy. Its

visible success stands to the credit of those people

of Hong Kong who have made it possible. But, by the

same token, by far the greatest benefit from

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Hong Kong's continued prosperity and the security upon

which it rests accrues to its own citizens.

/I wish

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