DRAFT
SECRET UK EYES A
the early resolution of current difficulties with the negotiations on
this subject. The principle that members of the Garrison will require
to deal directly with the PLA well in advance of the final handover
should be clearly established. The decision on when clearance is given
for this to happen will be a matter for political judgement. Early,
clear direction on the size of the defence estate and on what is to be
left behind will facilitate the planning process and greatly ease the
burden of disposing of material. In principle, as much as possible
should be left in situ rather than back-loaded to the UK; thereby
reducing the workload in the final months. The HKG have acknowledged
the need for a focal point in Hong Kong to coordinate dealing with the
various issues involved with the defence estate and equipment disposal
that will arise during the detailed withdrawal planning, and to ensure
timely HKG decisions and support to BFHK in the rundown period.
POLICY FOR THE DISPOSAL OF MILITARY EQUIPMENT
41. The current formal disposal process for military equipment is
lengthy and not well-suited to support the needs of the proposed
drawdown of the Garrison. Currently, the DCA requires that
backloading should be kept to a minimum, commensurate with military
requirements and priorities. Surplus equipment, following consultation
with the HKG, is sold wherever possible, or dumped or destroyed
locally. The HKG have the opportunity to purchase any surplus
equipment prior to local sale. This extended procedure, involving
delays at each stage, has already caused supply storage facilities to
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SECRET UK EYES A
DRAFT
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