SECRET UK EYES A LOCSEN
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REINFORCEMENT EXERCISE
40.
Consideration has yet to be given to exercising the contingency rein-
forcement of Hong Kong under the provisions of JTP 30. EX PURPLE VENTURE 92,
if run as an in-theatre CPX, would provide the first opportunity to do this. To
hold such an exercise in 1992, the year of the withdrawal of the first bat-
talion, would serve to demonstrate to the HKG and the PRCG the UK's capability
and will to deal with any break down of public order prior to 1997.
However, the reasons for holding such an exercise would need to be carefully
explained to the HKG and to the Chinese to avoid misunderstandings arising
about its purpose. In particular, it would be essential to avoid creating the
impression that the UK anticipates trouble before the final handover and does
not believe that the Hong Kong authorities have the capability to preserve
internal security and stability in the Territory. In addition, since the poten-
tial problems described in paragraph 12 could become more starkly apparent by
1992, presentation of the exercise to the Hong Kong public could require deli-
cate handling. For these reasons, it is proposed that, subject to the COS
endorsing the concept of a reinforcement exercise, the timing of the exercise
should be determined in close consultation with the HKG.
COMMUNICATIONS PLANNING
41. Sufficient supporting CIS facilities commensurate with operations will be
required in Hong Kong throughout the period of withdrawal. Their ultimate remo-
val or abandonment will need further study as part of the major review discussed
in the following paragraph.
ROW 113 (HONG)
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SECRET UK EYES A LOCSEN