TNAG-2404-FCO40-3491-Hong-Kong-defence-and-public-order-1992 — Page 168

SECRETARY OF STATE

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CONFIDENTIAL

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ROYAL NAVY EASTERN DEPLOYMENT

Mr Carlisle announced in the Navy Debate last June that plans were being made for a major Royal Navy Task Group deployment to the Far East and Pacific in 1992. We now have a detailed programme for the deployment (at Annex).

Since the early 1980s it has been the policy as confirmed in Command 8288 and 8758, for periodic major Royal Navy Task Group deployments to take place outside the NATO area. The last deployment took place in 1988, when a group of ships visited Australia for the bicentennial celebration and the Far East. Deployments of this kind fit in well with the strategic assumptions underlying "Britain's Defence for the 90s" and with the lessons of Operation Granby. They underline the flexibility of the UK's Naval forces to operate on a large scale away from the European theatre. Through a programme of exercises and port visits, these provide an effective demonstration of the UK's desire to maintain and develop defence relations with countries outside the NATO area. The deployments provide excellent training opportunities for the Royal Navy in less familiar waters and an opportunity, much appreciated by industry, to promote our defence exports. Costs will be accommodated within the agreed defence budget.

The 1992 deployment will be led by the aircraft carrier HMS INVINCIBLE, escorted by HMS NORFOLK (the first of the new Type 23 Frigates), HMS BOXER (a Type 22 Frigate) and HMS NEWCASTLE (a Type 42 Destroyer), supported by two Royal Fleet Auxiliaries. It will be commanded by Rear Admiral John Brigstocke. The Group will depart from the UK on 12th May and will return on 27th November. Ships of the Group will participate in two exercises organised under the auspices of the Five Power Defence Arrangements, as well as holding

Simon Gass Esq

Private Secretary to the Foreign Secretary

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