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undertaken by the RN PC. The HKG intend to provide a Rescue
Co
ination capability with fixed wing aircraft, helicopters,
and SC vessels. In some respects, this is a lesser S&R capability
than that currently provided, but it will achieve the level of
capability expected of HMG and HKG by international co-ordinating
bodies.
FUTURE OF THE HONG KONG PATROL CRAFT
56. The retention of the PC in Hong Kong as an additional
manifestation of HMG's commitment to the sovereignty of Hong
Kong, or to the maintenance of stability and reassurance of
the commercial sector, is not seen by either HMG or HKG as
carrying the same politically symbolic weight as does the
retention of ground forces. Although the presence of the
White Ensign may be desirable from the military point of view,
it may not be possible to justify the retention of the PC
throughout the whole rundown period, at a cost to the HKG, on
that basis alone.
57. The present force level of 5 PC was agreed between HMG and
HKG when there was a clearly defined external threat to Hong
Kong; this threat is assessed as inconceivable under present
circumstances. Retentio of the PC on a cost-sharing basis
is only realistic - ore MARPOL have assumed the RN's anti-II
role if HKG is prepared to contribute to the cost of signalling
sovereignty in Hong Kong waters and to retaining a more effective
S&R capability than is currently planned. A force of 3 PC
only is necessary to fulfil the anti-II responsibility and
ROW 19(5)36
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UK EYES A
SECRET
S