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ANNEK A TO DOP 535/70 (Final)
EF ECT OF A UNITED KINGDOM MILITARY PRESENCE IN SE ASIA POST-1971 ON THE EXISTING FAR EAST RUNDOWN PLAN
INTRODUCTION
The intention of HMG to retain a UK military presence in SE Asia has led CINCFE to recommend (1) a major reduction in the land force element at present planned (2) to be in the area in 1971. He considers, if it is politically acceptable, that an acceleration in the planned rundown of FARLLF would now not only be possible but also very desirable, and has forwarded a detailed study (1) on the subject.
has requested an early decision in principle on the acceptability and timing of an accelerated rundown of land forces. Proposals (3) to reduce the naval components of the Far East Command final force have also been submitted and have been
He
examined (4) separately.
AIM
2. To examine CINCFE's proposals (1) for accelerating the planned rundown (2) of FARELF.
OUTLINE OF CINCFE'S STUDY
Points Affecting the Rundown
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CINCFE's study lists 4 important points which affect any consideration of the land force rundown:
a.
The dismantling of the base must be completed and the incoming land force established alongside our ANZ allies by 31 December 1971.
b.
The current plan (2) allows for the main rundown to take place after April 1971 and a substantial force to remain after September 1971. It may no longer be necessary to retain land forces as large as those now envisaged and it may be possible to release men and units earlier for redeployment elsewhere.
C. Commencement of the main rundown a little earlier would not only facilitate 3a above, but would also ease many acute administrative problems and make it easier to avoid lengthy periods of separation for families.
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Economy.
Detailed Proposals
4. As a result of the greatly improved confidence with which the IS problems in Singapore can now be faced, CINCFE considers that the Gurkha battalion (1/2 GR) in Singapore, and the Australian and New Zealand force there, would constitute a sufficient land combat force to protect ANZUK property and personnel during the remainder of the rundown. He proposes that:
Notes:
CINCFE 26/70 dated 1 October 1970
CINCFE 7/68 (A) (Second Revise) (including Amendment No 2) CINCFE 2787/6130/34/16 dated 6 October 1970
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DOP Note 717/70
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