particular
the
airhead,
DRAFT
SECRET UK EYES A
which is vital to the deployment of
reinforcements to Hong Kong under Joint Theatre Plan (JTP) 30.
10. The concept of operations requires the availability in-Theatre of
at least two battalions for as long as possible. However, at the end
of 1996, once the task of protecting dependants and a large defence
estate is reduced significantly, force levels could reduce to one
battalion.
11.
Should it be necessary for British forces to
to provide direct
support to RHKP IS operations, or for troops to conduct independent IS
operations in extremis, reinforcement of BFHK will be
BFHK will be necessary.
Reinforcement will also be necessary if it is deemed desirable to
deploy a more substantial military force to the Sino-Hong Kong border
in order to deter a Chinese intervention by raising the political
profile of any such action by the PRC. The regular revision and
exercising of reinforcement plans (JTP 30 and JTP 68) remains
therefore an essential part of the Garrison withdrawal process.
KEY ISSUES FOR REVIEW
BATTALION WITHDRAWAL DATES
12.
The 1991 Review (CDS 32/91) envisaged retention of the option of
delaying the withdrawal of the second Gurkha battalion until 1995,
that is FY 95/96. It also concluded that it might be necessary to
6
SECRET UK EYES A
DRAFT