TNAG-2120-FCO40-3026-Hong-Kong-Garrison-future-of-the-Royal-Navy-presence-1990 — Page 97

CONFIDENTIAL UK EYES A

backloaded to the UK in the run-up to 1997. The problem of

manning the patrol craft after 1992 has still to be resolved.

3.

Within the last month, however, HKG has raised a number

of difficulties on the scheme. It is hoped that a compromise

will still be possible, based on the existing deal albeit slightly less favourable to MOD.

4. If agreement on funding arrangements cannot be reached

Chare said that May with HKG, MOD will have to reconsider whether the expense of

retaining the craft beyond 1992 for primarily political

reasons can be justified.

CONFIDENTIAL UK EYES A