TNAG-1938-FCO40-2764-Future-of-Hong-Kong-defence-and-public-order-1989 — Page 117

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SECRET UK EYES A LOCSEN

55. The COS are invited to confirm now their 1987 decision to withdraw the

first of the 4 remaining battalions in mid 1992.

56. The COS are invited to note that, following their confirmation of this

decision, plans will be progressed towards declaring this (Gurkha) battalion non

operational early in 1992, and redeploying or amalgamating it during the second

half of that year.

57. The COS are invited to note that, subject to confirmation of the decision

in paragraph 55, any public announcement of this decision is likely to be tied

to an announcement on the future of the Gurkhas as a whole.

REVIEWS

58. The COS are asked to endorse the proposal that the next biennial review

should be cancelled, and that the major 1992 review of the Hong Kong Garrison

Withdrawal Plan should be advanced, and completed by the end of 1991 (6 months

before the withdrawal of the first of the 4 remaining battalions).

59. The COS are asked to note that if at any time the situation or threat

changes in a manner that is likely to justify a review of the above decisions or

planning they will be advised accordingly.

60. The COS are advised that the contingency plan for the reinforcement of Hong

Kong (JTP 30) will be reviewed in Mar 90.

STUDIES

61. The COS are invited to endorse the requirement for a DIS study of the fac-

tors likely to contribute to the outbreak of violence in Hong Kong, and of what, if

ROW 113 (HONG)

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SECRET UK EYES A LOCSEN