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representation, and a consequent elimination of
elimination of the present single-Service HQS.
11.
The study is underway and will not report until Aug 93, but it has already become clear that with the reductions endorsed by OPD (K) it is not possible to justify the retention of three single-Service HQs and HQ BFHK. Consequently the structure of HQ BFHK will have to change radically to become a truly Joint Service organisation for the J3 function, with a modified tri- Service structure for J1/J4 and supporting services. In addition, all elements in-theatre will have to be scrutinised and reduced as necessary to reflect the overall reduction in the size of the Garrison.
12.
In view of the very tight timeframe (implementation by the end of 1994) there appears to be a clear need for CBF to be able to exercise Full Command of all elements of BFHK (except the RN patrol craft which would remain under the Full Command of CINCFLEET and Wessex helicopter squadron which would remain under the Full Command of AOCinC STC) early in the drawdown period so that he can progress the necessary changes rapidly. This will enable CBF to implement an inherently complex, integrated tri- Service drawdown and withdrawal in the most efficient, timely and cost-effective way. He should be given Full Command by 1 Apr 94, and suitable protocols will need to be developed in advance with CINCFLEET and AOCinC STC to establish the means by which the necessary RN and RAF support will be provided. This will allow the recommendations of the Future Structure of BFHK Study and the ACDS (L) Tri-Service Logistic Review of Hong Kong to be exploited to best effect and be reflected in the revise of CDS Directive to CBF Hong Kong which is due to be completed by 1 Apr 94.
13. CDS 32/91 concluded that command of the British Garrison in Brunei should pass to HQ UKLF with effect from 1 Apr 96. However, as HQBF Hong Kong will now reduce substantially during 1994, its ability to provide an adequate level of support for the Brunei Garrison will be seriously degraded by Jan 95. To simplify and ease the transfer of financial arrangements as far as practicable, it is now sensible for HQ UKLF to assume Full Command of the British Garrison Brunei from 1 Apr 95; at which time, it will also
also assume responsibility for British Gurkhas Nepal (BGN) and the Brigade of Gurkhas Infrastructure.6,7
INTELLIGENCE CONTINUITY
14. The continuity of intelligence coverage and updating of the threat context in which the Hong Kong Garrison Withdrawal Plan
7
HK 11953 J3 (0 & D), dated 1 Dec 92.
HK 11204/2 J3 (0 & D), dated 2 Sep 92, and D/DASD/307/4/3(ASD 1), dated 14 Oct 92.
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