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as key dates approach, but a positive and open policy should preclude ill-informed speculation and minimise difficulties in the rundown period.
29. PR/P Info activity must demonstrate not only an orderly military withdrawal but also provide tangible evidence that HMG's defence responsibilities and commitments to HK are being met until 1997. This will be particularly important in the context of the faster rundown and full consideration must be given to the presentation of the rundown to the PRC through the Joint Liaison Group (JLG). PR/P Info should also contribute significantly to securing support (in HK, the UK and international circles) for and acceptance of, military decisions and the rationale behind them.
30.
The PR/P Info Plan for the withdrawal of the Garrison should be reviewed regularly and briefed to the Hong Kong Steering Committee (HKSC) at 6 monthly intervals. Responsibility for overall PR/P Info policy direction in Hong Kong rests with the Press Secretary in MOD, although day-to-day management will be directed by CBF through DPR (HK). The potential sensitivities of the rundown plan underline the need for continuing close liaison between MOD, CBF, the HKG and the FCO. This should be facilitated by a Press Policy Group (PPG), to ensure the development of coordinated PR and P Info policy.
SUPPORT FOR THE FINAL DEPARTURE
31. At Reference A the Chiefs of Staff noted the outline plan for a RN Task Force (NTF) to assist the final withdrawal of the Garrison. This commitment would be included in a routine RN Group Far East deployment in 1997. The involvement of the NTF would be a key element of CBF's plan for the final months of the British presence in Hong Kong.
32. The precise timing of the arrival of a NTF in Hong Kong, its composition, and the additional costs incurred by its specific involvement in the final withdrawal of the Garrison, will require further staffing by the Naval Working Group (NWG) with HQBF Hong Kong. Detailed recommendations are to be provided to the HKSC by Sep 94.
33. There will still be a significant requirement to withdraw personnel by air, but it should be assumed that where equipment is to be back-loaded routinely to UK this would normally be accomplished by commercial shipping. There will be a requirement to prove the feasibility of the withdrawal plan as far as practicable probably by MAPEX, CPX and wargaming, due to the potential political sensitivity and practical difficulties of exercising this activity effectively in Hong Kong.
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