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had been verbally acknowledged by MARPOL that design faults had been experienced with the first 2 new model Sector Command (SC) launches delivered and that a firm of design consultants had been engaged to examine the problems. More significantly, HQBFHK had been notified at this stage unofficially - that the introduction of the second of 3 new SC launches would consequently be delayed by one, if not 2, years. This is an aspect that needs some 'think-tanking' as the date for withdrawal of the PEACOCK PC was originally related to the assumption of RN capabilities by the second batch of MARPOL SC launches. VCDS has observed that the delayed introduction of the SC launches will need to be reflected in the DN Plans Study into the Future RN Presence in Hong Kong.
CALL ON HE THE GOVERNOR
5. Three main issues were discussed when VCDS called on HE The Governor, Sir David Wilson. On the subject of LEPS/LECS VCDS laid stress on the dangers of there being no secure future for these individuals after the final handover date. The Governor conceded that the HKG had not addressed this issue yet and seemed persuaded when VCDS proposed that consideration should be given to offering employment to the LEPS and LECS in administrative and supporting roles for the RHKP. VCDS underlined that this
would allow expensively-trained police officers to concentrate on their primary duties. CBF observed that some of the LEPS were well qualified themselves to conduct police roles, eg the garrisca's dog handlers. The Governor indicated he would give this aspect close attention.
6. The HKG's requirements for extension of the RN presence beyond 1991 were discussed and it was evidently a matter of concern to him that MOD currently had no plans to retain the PEACOCK PC in Hong Kong beyond that date; indeed, VCDS emphasised this point by suggesting to Sir David that the RN had already identified a useful role for the PEACOCKS following their return. The Governor was clearly concerned and certainly noted the point when VCDS stressed that the retention of the PEACOCKS post-1991, or of any other alternative craft which might be considered more suitable by London, would require a clear statement of requirement to be notified by the HKG. Sir David had introduced the subject of the RN presence by saying he believed that, notwithstanding the current Withdrawal Plans, HMG would probably find it difficult to reduce the Garrison strength to the levels currently proposed. Apart from the retention of the PC by which he meant PEACOCK PC he also believed HMG might not be able to reduce below a strength of 2 battalions in the last years leading up to 30 Jun 97.
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