TNAG-1937-FCO40-2763-Future-of-Hong-Kong-defence-and-public-order-1989 — Page 55

Redacted under FOI exemption 27(1)

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SECRET UK EYES A LOCSEN

for incorporation in the 3 Star draft.

8. The second draft also endorsed CBFHK's contention that incorporation of an Annex detailing CBF's revised Concept of Operations was unnecessary a8 this was adequately covered at Part Two of the paper.

9. The second draft sought Two Star comment on the following 2 issues:

a. Reinforcement Exercise. It was proposed to utilise Ex PURPLE VICTORY 92 as' an exercise of the contingency reinforcement of Hong Kong (in the year the first battalion is to withdraw).

b. Garrison Title. CBF's recommendation that the title "Sovereign Force

Porce Hong Kong" be discarded.

FIRST REVISE THIRD DRAFT.

10. Concept of Operations. In his response to the 2 Star Draft, CBPHK advised that the revised Concept of Ops was endorsed by the Governor on 22 Dec 88. The Governor had stated he foresaw

need for an operational RN presence ("with a gun on it") until the end or very near it and gave his view that the retention of 2 PC would probably meet his requirements. The Governor added that he envisaged a need for 2 resident battalions until the end. CBP expressed appreciation for the Centre's

for the Centre's support of his view that the Concept of Ops is a matter for the Governor and the Garrison Commander; he has indicated that a copy will reach ACDS (0) shortly for staffing to DCDS (C).

11.

Future RN Presence ACNS has

accepted

to provide some form of

RN presence afloat until 30 Jun 97 and the need for a MOD Navy-led study into how the requirement might best be met. TORS will be drafted by 31 Jan 89.

12.

Scout Helicopters. MOD Army have provided review of the Scout force levels required to meet the contingency requirement for 6 aircraft. They have proposed a Unit Establishment (UE) of 8 Scouts rather than an option involving a reduced UE and a balance of in use or immediate reserves (IURs/IRRs). This recommendation has the support of the Central Staffs. MOD Army have been invited to provide a more cogently developed submission for incorporation in the Plan before it is forwarded to VCDS and HODS.

SECRET UK EYES A LOCSEN

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