TNAG-2216-FCO40-3183-Position-on-the-Executive-Council-of-Peter-Duffell--Commande-1991 — Page 17

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and thus would sit ill

We suggest there is a real risk also that the removal of CBF from EXCO at this stage could send an unfortunate message within Hong Kong, and outside, about the distancing of the garrison from the administration and the community. It would almost inevitably tend to weaken links at lower levels; with the thrust of the current review of the Garrison withdrawal plan, with its emphasis on the Garrison as an earnest of continued British commitment and sovereignty, and a theme of "stronger for longer" generally.

I have consulted the Defence Secretary and he agrees that in the light of the above we should urge you to ask the Governor to reconsider the proposal in the light of what I have said above.

Sir David Gillmore KCMG

Permanent Under-Secretary of State Foreign and Commonwealth Office Downing Street

London SW1 2AH

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Jane

Malael