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territorial waters by the NTF, or possibly by a separate RN unit,
would allow the 3 Hong Kong patrol vessels to cease operations in
time for their preparation for final disposal. The RN in Hong
Kong will in any event experience
experience increasing difficulty in
manning the patrol vessels from late 1996, due to the run-out of
RN LEP.
e.
Land-based Operational Security. The presence of a NTF
would reduce the number of shore-based installations required to
the end. Consequently, there would be a reduced need for manning
and guarding such facilities, with as many functions being
transferred afloat as soon as practicable.
The presence of а NTF would
f. Embarked Reserve Force.
provide the option of deploying an embarked force, which could
provide an immediate reserve for operations ashore if required.
g.
Presentational Aspects.
[[The Governor has stated his
requirement for the final withdrawal to be conducted with all due
ceremony. The presence of a NTF, superimposed upon the remaining
Garrison units, would contribute significantly to achieving
this.]]
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