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Naval Working Group paper concluded that even in a totally benign
environment, there would be advantages in deploying a small NTF to
provide secure C31 and sealift. In a potentially unstable security
environment, the NTF would need to be enhanced by the inclusion of
either a LPD or a CVS; or possibly by both units. Due to its
significance to the management and conduct of the final months of the
British presence in Hong Kong, options for the involvement of the NTF
is a key decision issue of the 1993 Review.
40. The precise timing of the arrival of a NTF in Hong Kong should be
the subject of further study by MOD (N), in conjunction with HQBF Hong
Kong, in time for the MOD (N) conclusions to be taken fully into
account in the Hong Kong Garrison Withdrawal Plan and well in advance
of the 1995 Review; with the HKSC being advised of the MOD (N) detailed
recommendations in February 1994. The possibility of the NTF presence
in Hong Kong waters being linked to other RN deployments to the region
should be examined. There will still be a significant requirement to
withdraw personnel by air, but it
it should be assumed that where
equipment is to be back-loaded routinely to UK this would normally be
accomplished by commercial shipping.
41. Given the acknowledged volatility of the political climate in
Hong Kong, and the unpredictability of the population's possible
reaction to the approach of the transfer of sovereignty, it would be
prudent at this stage to plan for the option of inclusion of a CVS in
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