TNAG-1937-FCO40-2763-Future-of-Hong-Kong-defence-and-public-order-1989 — Page 51

R

14 FEB 989

HKC 062/1

From: Lieutenant General Sir Antony Walker KCB

Spare x 3

1073

PAED

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

MAIN BUILDING WHITEHALL LONDON SW1A 2HB

Telephone 01-218

(Direct Dialling)

01-218 9000 (Switchboard)

1412

DEPUTY CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF (COMMITMENTS)

D Cts Staff (R)/76/259/22/1

1

February 1989

See Distribution

Copy No 16 of 19 Copies.

No16

HONG KONG GARRISON WITHDRAWAL PLAN (CDS_7/87) THIRD DRAFT.

·

FIRST REVISE

References: A. D Cts Staff (R)/76/259/22/1 dated 24 Nov 88. B. D Cts Staff (R)/76/259/22/1 dated 20 Dec 88.

1. I am most grateful for the constructive comment that your staffs have provided on both the initial and the second drafts of the First Revise of the Hong Kong Garrison Withdrawal Plan circulated under References A and B respectively. I have reviewed the third draft, attached as Enclosure 1, and believe that we are very close to production of a final paper suitable for consideration by the Chiefs of Staff (COS).

2. At Annex A, I attach a summary of the development of the paper, which describes the amendments and additions made during the editing of the third draft (paragraphs 10 to 17 refer). The principal change that has been incorporated is the Army Department's recommendation that the Scout helicopter force should remain

remain at its present Unit Establishment of 8 aircraft until about 1993; I would be grateful if the Army Department would provide their full rationale for incorporation in the next draft of the plan.

plan. Addressees will also note that the Navy Department have agreed to lead on the study into the Future RN Presence in Hong Kong and that, whilst there was universal support for the concept of using PURPLE VENTURE 92 as a CPX for the reinforcement of Hong Kong, the title "Sovereign Force Hong Kong" should no longer be used.

3.

Addressees will also find reference made to H E the Governor of Hong Kong's views, expressed to CBF Hong Kong, that he sees a need for retention of an RN presence afloat until the final handover, and for retention of 2 Battalions until a much later stage than is currently planned. The Hong Kong Department of the FCO was particularly anxious that Sir David Wilson should have an opportunity to review the Plan before it is presented to the COS. I accordingly authorised delivery of a copy to the Governor, by hand of CBF Hong Kong's representative, subject to CBP's confirmation that the plan accurately reflects the Hong Kong

SECRET UK EYES A

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