TNAG-1938-FCO40-2764-Future-of-Hong-Kong-defence-and-public-order-1989 — Page 39

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Kong"

be discarded and that the garrison retain the title "Hong Kong Garrison" until the final handover.

EXCO MEETING OF 28 FEB 89

45.

EXCO considered a summary of this paper, prepared by

the FCO in consultation with MOD, on 28 February 1989. This procedure was authorised so that an indication of the HKG's views regarding aspects of the first revise of CDS 7/87 could be reflected in the paper itself. The following considerations are particularly relevant:

a.

The Conclusions of the Review. EXCO endorsed the

conclusions.

b.

Retention of a Naval Presence and Two Battalions.

EXCO recorded that it might well be in Hong Kong's interests to retain a naval presence and 2 battalions

up to 1997 (the latter is not a recommendation of this paper). They stated it was now apparent

are no

that the original reasons for early withdrawal longer valid: it is now considered that the Chinese are likely to make decisions about their post-1997 deployment in Hong Kong irrespective of future

reductions in the British Garrison. EXCO indicated that future decisions on naval and military strength should therefore be taken solely on the basis of the practical and psychological needs in Hong Kong. EXCO stated they would need to take a considered view at a later stage on what those needs will be.

C. Major Review

Timescale.

Redacted under FOI exemption section 27(1)

COS49.6-17

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