LOCSEN
SECRET
UK EYES A
The remaining
second battalion from Hong Kong might be affected). garrison force, whatever its size, would be rundown over the
period between the assumption of the garrison's tasks (planned date 1994) and the date of the final handover (30 Jun 97); withdrawals would be authorised in the light of the state of stability and security pertaining in Hong Kong which would be closely monitored during the final phase.
-
48. The outline withdrawal plan is indicated diagrammatically at
Annex
It falls into three natural phases:
پھر
a.
Phase 1 (Preparatory Phase) 1987-91. This is the initial thinning out' of minor units during the initial stage of the RHKP expansion. It is also during this phase that the roles of the Hong Kong Sqn RN Patrol Craft (PC) and 3 Raiding Sqn Royal Marines (3 RSRM) are planned to be assumed by the Marine Police (MARPOL). (The future –
sation of the PCs is discussed at paras 56 58.) This is the most predictable period and the one during which the majority of the Hong Kong community will begin to prepare for the future.
b.
Phase 2 (Watershed Phase) 1992-94. This covers the period of the major withdrawals prior to leaving the proposed, interim 2 + 1 battalion 'Sovereign Force Hong Kong'.
It
is, at present, an unpredictable phase during which indications of the situation likely to prevail in the last years of British rule should begin to become clearer. Changes to plans are more likely during this phase. The situation will need to be watched carefully and reviewed constantly.
c.
Phase 3 (Final Phase) 1994-97. This is the phase during which the reduction to the single battalion group should
occur subject to the existence of favourable conditions.
This phase will witness the withdrawal of the final UK
military presence.
8/173/71
23
UK EYES A
SECRET
TOOSRAM