TNAG-0617-FCO40-765-Strength-and-cost-of-UK-armed-forces-stationed-in-Hong-Kong-1977 — Page 77

Mr Yarnold

Mr Wilberforce ·

. Mr Moberly

cc: SAD

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THE BRIGADE OF GURKHAS (FIVE BATTALIONS)

Mr Moberly asked to see any up to date paper about the . Gurkha problem.

2. MOD are preparing one. However, according to DS 11, it is such a confusing and untidy document that they are unwilling to let us have even an under the counter copy.

The paper

reflects considerable disagreement in MOD about the future of the Brigade, some of it pretty acrimonious. DS 11 have promised to send a copy as soon as it has reached a stage fit for FCO eyes.

Hong Kong

3.

Three battalions are expected to remain in Hong Kong until

Why 1982 at least 1982. way

Wakil near-end of DCA:

purposes only.

figure employed for plaanty

THIS IS A COPY

THE ORIGINAL HAS EN CLOSED

UNTIL

EXEMPTION No ... 27.

ANDER FOI

Britain

5. One battalion is stationed in the UK engaged on non- essential and ceremonial tasks.

6. Gurkhas cannot be deployed to either Germany or Northern Ireland. MOD have suggested using them in Belize but FCO Ministers may well attempt to veto this idea. Thus the Army take the view that they are saddled with a Brigade of infantry which cannot be used to meet any of their major commitments.

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