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Page 120
Annex to J.P.(56)59 (Final)
PLANNING FOR THE DEFENCE OF HONG KONG
INTRODUCTION
1. The BDCC (FE) have requested
that the Chiefs of Staff consider a proposal that an approach to the Americans should be made with a view to arranging bilateral staff talks on the defence of Hong Kong.
AIM
2. The aim of this paper is to prepare a reply to the BDCC (FE) proposal+.
OUR VIEWS
3. The BDCC(FE) proposals stem from a statement by Admiral Stump at the recent ANZUS meeting in Melbourne that, in his
Although this statement was view, Hong Kong was defensible. made in January and the United States Government was not officially informed of our intentions until February, it seems probable that Admiral Stump was aware of our policy to reduce the Hong Kong garrison when he made his assertion.
4. We consider it to be desirable to hold Anglo-American talks on the defence of Hong Kong and we agree with the BDCC(FE) that a preliminary approach should be made in Washington rather than to Admiral Stump (CINCPAC).
5. We further agree with the BDCC (FE) that before talks are held, a United Kingdom intelligence appreciation is necessary showing the likelihood of an attack on the Colony, the general circumstances under which it might occur and the
This resultant threat assuming nuclear counter-action. appreciation should be undertaken by the Joint Intelligence Committee in London. In the light of this appreciation a study should be carried out by the BDCC(FE) to determine the capability of the garrison, when reduced as planned, to defend the Colony.
6. A draft reply to the BDCC(FE) is contained at Appendix.
Study on the Defence of Hong Kong
7. On 26th January, 1956, the Chiefs of Staff instructedR the Joint Planning Staff to carry out a study on the Defence of Hong Kong on the assumption that United States air
In view of paragraph 5 assistance would be forthcoming.
above we consider that the preparation of this study should be cancelled.
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+ SEACOS 60
(109)
(98)
+ SEACOS 65
@ COS(56)12th Meeting, Minute 6
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