SECRET UK EYES A
NATIONAL STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
11.
The broad strategic objectives of British foreign policy are the enhancement of the security and prosperity of the UK and Dependent territories, and the promotion and protection of British interests overseas (). These objectives are linked with the security of the Western alliance as a whole (°). Despite the uncertainties of the future it seems reasonable to infer that these broad objectives will continue to hold good.
NATIONAL OBLIGATIONS AND INTERESTS
12.
UK Dependencies. A list of those UK Dependencies which are likely to be extant is at Appendix 4 to Annex B. Hong Kong is planned to be transferred to the PRC in 1997, and those others which remain are characterized by small populations and a very limited ability to defend themselves.
The UK acknowledges that failure to protect them would entail considerable political damage (9), which connotes a
preparedness to resort to force in their defence if necessary. Furthermore, their geographical dispersal may have implications for strategic deployment. The UK will also retain some responsibility for the protection both of its
citizens overseas which will continue to be manifested largely
in the form of Evacuation Plans, and of its merchant shipping (10).
13.
Defence Agreements and Understandings. The FPDA between the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia and Singapore will probably still be in effect, as may be the treaty with Brunei. Neither agreement explicitly commits the UK to the use of
7CDS 38/88 - OOA Strategy Review.
$CDS 11/89 - UK Defence Policy Guidelines.
CDS 38/88
10 CB 3012
G
OOA Strategy Review.
- Guide to International Maritime Law.
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UK EYES A
SECRET
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