TNAG-1938-FCO40-2764-Future-of-Hong-Kong-defence-and-public-order-1989 — Page 86

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HMG judged it preferable to have military force available to control unrest

rather than risk pre-emptive Chinese intervention. HMG therefore determined

that a garrison of appropriate strength and composition to demonstrate HMG's

commitment to maintenance of the security and sovereignty of Hong Kong, and to

act in support of the HKG - would remain based in Hong Kong until 30 Jun 97.

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8. Joint Liaison Group (JLG) Discussions - Post CDS 7/87. Discussions between

the British (HMG and HKG) and Chinese sides in the JLG have covered a number of

aspects of the transition to 1997. From this it appears that the PRC have not

yet developed their plans for a PLA presence in Hong Kong and that they will

take a close interest in the development of our withdrawal plans, especially in

any aspects which they believe might affect their future presence. Although HMG

has made it clear that the Chinese do not have a veto on our plans, it will be

important to take account of the need to consult the Chinese at appropriate

points - as has been done in relation to the planned withdrawal of the first

battalion in 1992.

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ROW 113 (HONG)