§ Mr. Trotterasked the Secretary of State for Defence by what proportion the garrison in Hong Kong is to be cut; and which units are to be withdrawn.
§ Mr. MasonThe size of the future garrison in Hong Kong and its financing under any future cost-sharing agreement is the subject of discussions with the Hong Kong Government, and it would be inappropriate to comment until these have been completed. In the meantime, there has been agreement on some early reductions under the present cost-sharing agreement, in respect of United Kingdom-based and locally-enlisted personnel. These will include the withdrawal of an armoured reconnaissance squadron, an artillery regiment less one battery, the disbandment of an engineer squadron and transport troop, and some reductions in Royal Navy and Royal Air Force strengths.