CODE 18-77|
RESTRICTED
GF
RARPIS. xx pls.
۹/۱۵۰
Mr Sawyer, NPPD
CRAFT
HONG KONG PATROL EAR: TASKING
Reference
(68)
NPDD + SEAD also
HKB 063/1 more
No
comments
8110
1. I attach a copy of a letter I have received from the MOD proposing revised tasking for the three Hong Kong patrol craft.
2.
From this department's point of view, these proposals are very welcome. The absence of patrol craft from Hong Kong is noticed there and I have no doubt that the new Legislative Council will be looking for any excuse to complain about the amount Hong Kong has to pay to keep the Garrison in Hong Kong. Having craft operational for 365 days a year will help to offset these pressures.
3.
I understand from Martin Howard in the MOD that the proposed reduction from five visits to three per year, will mean that Countries in the low priority category instead of being visited every two years or so, might be visited only every three to five years and possibly not at all before 1997.
4. I should be grateful to know whether you or any copy addressees have any objection to the MOD's proposals.
MB.
M V Stone
Hong Kong Department
WH 304
270 2651
27 September 1991
CC: SEAD
FED
SIPAPC
TG
Mr Stove, HKD)
No objection from FED's point of view
ANS
RESTRICTED
4/X