TNAG-1937-FCO40-2763-Future-of-Hong-Kong-defence-and-public-order-1989 — Page 90

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PART FOUR - SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS

FIRST REVISE OF HONG KONG GARRISON WITHDRAWAL PLAN SUMMARY

45.

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Introduction. The first review of CDS 7/87 conducted between Nov 88 [and

Feb 89] has concluded that no changes to the broad timescales originally planned

for the withdrawal of battalions and supporting naval and air forces (except AAC

Scouts) are yet warranted. It is necessary to give further consideration to the

requirement to retain a RN presence afloat in Hong Kong between 1991 and 30 Jun

1997. It is proposed by MOD Army that the Scout helicopter force should remain

at 8 UE until about 1993. Moreover, the optimum mix of helicopters post 1989

needs review in the light of the revised Concept of Operations.

46. Army. Withdrawal of battalions provides the framework for the military

plan which provides overlap and flexibility to cater for slippage of the Police

Expansion plan. The Hong Kong Garrison will reduce by one (Gurkha) bat-

talion to a total of 3 battalions (2 Gurkha and one UK) in mid 1992 once the

RHKP have assumed responsibility for half the border by end 1991. It will reduce to 2 battalions (5) after the Police have assumed the major part of the

Garrison's IS, anti-II and special tasks for planning purposes not before

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1994. The remaining 2 battalions will further reduce - subject to stable and

secure conditions to a single UK battalion group as soon as possible during

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the period 1994 - 7. [Formal notification is awaited from the HKG endorsing the

Governor's stated view that two resident battalions will be required until the

final handover on 30 Jun 97]. The size and scale of Army supporting arms and

services is to be directly related to the roles and operational requirements of

the remaining garrison at all stages during the rundown.

5

Possible one Gurkha and one UK, or two UK battalions, one of which would be a roulement battalion.

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