15.
SECRET UK EYES ONLY
ANNEX A TO
DOP 535/70 (Draft)
(Concluded
CONCLUSIONS
We conclude that:
a.
CINCFE's proposal to withdraw 42 Cdo Gp, HQ 3 Cdo Bde Gp
and A Sqn 14/20 H, starting from 1 Apr 71 is acceptable.
b.
The withdrawal of 40 Cdo Gp should be delayed until after
its relief in late Oct 71 by a UK infantry battalion. The
withdrawal of the families of 40 Cdo Gp could be delayed until
the first 2 weeks in Sep 71.
c.
From 1 Oct 71, 40 Cdo in Singapore could be at 12 days
notice to move in an LPH as part of the covering force for
the Gulf withdrawal.
d. After relief, on or about 1 Nov 71, 40 Cdo Gp should
embark in an LPH and move to cover the Gulf withdrawal, if
required. If not required, it could move direct to UK, but in
this case special arrangements would be necessary to cover the
gap between their arrival in the UK and the availability of
accommodation.
e.
It would be necessary to delay the move of 1/2 GR from
Singapore to Hong Kong until after the arrival in Singapore of
a UK battalion group in late Oct 71.
f.
CINCFE would be required to make alternative command
arrangements after the withdrawal of HQ 3 Cdo Bde Gp.
g. The Singapore and Malaysian Governments should be informed
by Jan 71, at the latest, of the intention to modify the
existing Far East rundown plan.
A - 6
SECRET UK EYES ONLY