TNAG-1235-FCO40-1548-Future-of-Hong-Kong-1983 — Page 108

CONFIDENTIAL A

SUPPLEMENTARY QUESTIONS

1.

2.

3.

4.

•

5.

HOW LONG TO REINFORCE FROM BRUNEI?

WHAT REINFORCEMENTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR HONG KONG OTHER THAN THE BRUNEI

WHAT LEVEL OF REINFORCEMENT IS ENVISAGED BY YOUR

PRESENT CONTINGENCY PLANS?

DOES THE HONG KONG GARRISON

HAVE ANY STRATEGIC ROLE BEYOND HONG KONG ITSELF?

CONTINGENCY PLANS IN EVENT OF CHINESE INVASION?

It would depend on circumstances;

but elements of the garrison could

arrive within 24 hours.

We would deploy forces from the

UK. The Spearhead battalion is

on 72 hours notice to move, other

reinforcements would be available

as necessary._7

We would reinforce as necessary.

If Pressed: 3 battalions together

with appropriate supporting

elements._7

No.

However, it is the UK's only

substantial military force in

the Far East and can therefore be

used regionally as appropriate.

For example, elements of the

garrison regularly take part in

exercises under the auspices of

the Five Power Defence Arrangements.

I am not sure that it is useful

to speculate on such a hypothetical

situation. Our relations with

the Peoples Republic of China are

good and we have a mutual interest

in the stability and prosperity

of Hong Kong.

CONFIDENTIAL