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out correctly, it will take time and will begin at an early stage. It is therefore important as the date of final withdrawal
approaches that the Garrison occupies as few sites as possible.
This will not only ease the handover process but will save manpower and resources, and facilitate security. The final site or sites will be decided at a later date, and much will depend
on negotiations over the Defence Estate. But it/they will almost certainly be earmarked for future use by the PLA. At this early stage it is suggested that the final base should be at
Stonecutters.
This will have the advantage of being in a central
location and have the facilities the RN require in the final
period. It could provide adequate administrative and logistic
facilities for both the RN and the Army, and with little
modification or temporary accommodation the infrastructure would be
sufficient for the remaining force, including the residual
Headquarters. Finally, although by 1997 Stonecutters' will no longer be an island, if redevelopment plans come to fruition, it will remain a suitable site from a security viewpoint.
Command and Control
8. HO BFHK. Even though the size of the Garrison will be small,
there will still be a requirement for a residual and reduced HQBF.
This HQ will act as the interface between the units and MOD, HMG and
HKG; and also provide a forward tactical HQ (there being no need for
a separate intermediate HQ once the third battalion
battalion has been
withdrawn). The HQ should be as small as possible; should include the
necessary expertise to ensure a smooth handover and must be properly
intergrated on a Tri-Service basis, thus negating the necessity for 3 separate staffs. It will include:
a.
A Tri-Service operational staff with the ability to provide
a small tactical HQ in the event of involvement on operations.
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