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solid organisation, there are grounds for concern that it may not, in the uncertainties of the next 6 years, be
be able to meet all its
expanding commitments. It is probable therefore, that despite RHKP's determination to stand entirely on its own feet, requests for Garrison assistance will still be forthcoming in the latter years of the run-
down. This is contrary to previous assessments which had anticipated
that the RHKP would have the numbers, will and ability to cope with the vast majority of contingencies by 1994. Any decision to reduce
Garrison force levels after the 1992 battalion has been withdrawn must
bear this firmly in mind.
Future of the Brigade of Gurkhas.
40. From a purely operational point of view, the future of the
Brigade of Gurkhas also has important implications.
Gurkhas comprise 68% of the Hong Kong Garrison, including all the engineers and signals, and provide some two thirds of the manpower for transport.
If decisions on early reduction or disbandment of the Gurkhas were to
result in their replacement by roulement battalions from UK, the resulting disruption and turbulence would have a significant effect
on the operational viability of the Garrison in the short to medium
term.
the
41. If, on
other hand, the Brigade of Gurkhas
reduction/disbandment plan entails the majority of Gurkha units in
Hong Kong being disbanded immediately following our withdrawal in June
1997, there will undoubtedly be a considerable lowering of morale and consequent lowering of efficiency in the period leading up to disbandment. At a time when efficiency and military preparedness needs
to be at a peak, this could have most unfortunate consequences, and any plans for reduction or disbandment need to take these factors into
account.
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