SECRET UK EYES A
D/(Pol&Nuc)C/6/2/1
29 January 1993
Sec (0)(C) *
copy to:
PS/DUS (P) *
ACDS (Pol & Nuc) * DO (FEW)
HKA 063/1
EVEA
03 FEB 1993
DESK ONION
LX
DNO
DMO*
D Air Off
D Prog
DJW/EX
Deputy Press Secretary Head of Sec (NS)*
Head Of GS Sec*
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σ
Head of Sec (AS)*
Head of RP (Prog)
Head of GF
FCO (HKD)
Mr Ricketts
HQBF Hong Kong
(* sent by MOAST)
THE HONG KONG WITHDRAWAL PLAN
I welcome the opportunity to comment on the draft Hong Kong withdrawal plan (D/Sec(0)(C)6/7 dated 25 January 1993) and the discussion with DO (FEW) on the subject.
2.
As I
I am in broad agreement with the proposals for the withdrawal plan and to commit the HKG to agreeing to a funded, cost effective and militarily acceptable withdrawal plan. discussed with DO (FEW) yesterday, however, the drafting needs to be improved to make it clear that what you have in mind is a garrison of only one battalion for the final year; and that the proposed RN Task Group is to provide a symbolic presence and a contingency reinforcement not to conduct the withdrawal. (Para 10d suggests you are looking at a CVS group or civilian lift.) In my view, a RN Task Group deployment should be planned to ensure a suitable presence in the area for the withdrawal.
3.
On more minor points:
the Paper should recognise that the Garrison provides more than just internal security support and a demonstration of UK Sovereignty; it supports commercial and business confidence and acts as a deterrent against any early move by PRC during the run up to withdrawal;
1
SECRET UK EYES A
I suppose