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Evacuation of British Citizens
ANNEX A to
DP 17/78(C)(P-eliminary Draft)
(Continued)
25.
Evacuation planning world-wide was reviewed by the MOD
and FCO in 1975. In this review the FCO stated that use of troops
in the protection role was not envisaged as this no longer seemed
politically practicable. The FCO recommendation, which was
accepted by FCO Ministers, led to planning in the MOD for the use
of protection forces being reduced (16). Recent events in Zaire and
the prospects of a deteriorating situation in Rhodesia have led
to a further review of the concept of Servicos Protected Evacuations
(17).
26. A list of the countries in which it is now judged that a
Service Protested Evacuation (SPE) may be necessary is at
Appendix 3. Planning for implementation of SPES envisages the use
of the entire Air Transport Force, the deployment of two
battalions with a parachute drop if necessary, a force headquarters
element, special forces element, special boat section and supporting
clements to include field engineers, signals, transport, medical
teams, ordnance, electrical and mechanical engineers, light
helicopters, a mobile air movements unit, RAF engineering support
and communications. One of the battalions could be a Royal
Marine Commando. HM Ships could be used in plans for coastal
States.
Notes:
16. CDS 1210/2 of 10 February 1976.
17.
DOP 503/78 (To be issued)
A - 17
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