HK 66060/3 Jt Sec
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OUTLINE STAFF TARGET FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF HONG KONG PATROL CRAFT
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INTRODUCTION
1.
The Patrol Craft of the Hong Kong Squadron have now completed long refits which extend their lives to 1982. The aim of this paper is to define the tasks of the Hong Kong Squadron and recommend in broad terms what type of Patrol Craft is required to replace the present 'Ton' Class vessels starting in 1982.
2. The overall role of the British forces in Hong Kong is defined in the report of a Hong Kong Joint Working Party dated 20 March 1975, which resulted in the Naval element of the approved garrison being agreed as part of the Defence Costs Agreement between the UK Government and the HK Government which was signed in London on 18 December 1975.
3. Under the present policy of the Chinese Government a deliberate attack on Hong Kong can be regarded as so unlikely as to no longer constitute a justification for any particular force level. However, minor incidents involving illegal immigrants and the Hong Kong based fishing fleet sometimes occur, and it is always possible that such incidents, whether premeditated or otherwise, might escalate to the use of armed force beyond the immediate control of the Marine Police with whom the Squadron regularly patrol in close concert. The Royal Navy therefore has a dual deterrent and security role.
4.
It is unlikely that warships to support the squadron could be available from UK in less than four weeks, although it is remotely possible that support from a deployed 'Group' could be provided earlier.
5. This paper seeks:
a. Endorsement of the Outline Staff Target for the replacement Hong Kong Squadron Patrol Craft.
b.
Authority to proceed with the necessary material studies.
HONG KONG AREAS AND TASKS
6.
Hong Kong Coastal. into four patrol sectors:
(Chart No. 3026.) Local waters are divided
a. West Sector. Although this is a small sector, it is the closest to Canton, where a considerable number of CCN craft are based. It is separated from South Sector by the mass of Lantau Island and the normal entry point to West Sector for RN vessels is via the small channel between Tsing Yi and Ma Wan. In the shallows of Deep Bay Naval support for the Marine Police is limited by accessibility.
b. South Sector. The western part of South Sector around the Soko Islands is also a possible entry point for CCN craft into Colony waters. This is a narrow choke point and easy to cover; however the southern edge of South Sector, along the square boundary, is 36 miles long and close to several Communist Chinese Islands from which CCN craft could be operated.
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