TNAG-2404-FCO40-3491-Hong-Kong-defence-and-public-order-1992 — Page 183

SECRET UK EYES A LOCSEN

the withdrawal from the Territory would remain local until near the end,

unless the situation took an unexpected turn for the worst. On the

subject of manning, PR staffs might have to be increased as the Garrison

reduced. A copy of the draft plan, which will be incorporated in the

1993 Review is at Annex B.

24. The Chairman commented that his staff and HQ BFHK would need to

study the plan. CBF HK believed the plan had identifed the correct areas

and stated that HQ BFHK already had good links with HKG Information

Branch. In CBF HK's view, international media interest in Hong Kong would be driven locally. There would be a need for quality PR staff. AUS (C) supported the idea

idea of a Press Policy Group, chaired at the appropriate official level rather than by a Minister.

ITEM 3f EX WINGED DRAGON 92

25. The Chairman explained that it had been widely accepted that this reinforcement exercise (to be held 6 - 20 November 1992) could be highly sensitive politically. CDS 32/91 required the Steering Committee to

review exercise planning and recommend whether or not it was appropriate to proceed at this stage. Mr Stone stated that he saw no reason why the exercise should be any more than usually sensitive. The FCO were happy

for planning to continue. CBF HK concurred and said HKG had no

difficulties with the exercise at the moment.

26. The Chairman then asked CBF HK whether he could give a brief update on exercise planning. ACOS J3 reminded the meeting that the aim of the

exercise was to validate JTP 30 and practise HQ BFHK's

HQ BFHK'S concept of operations. HQ BFHK had an S01 Plans in place, who was also planning the

precursor exercise EX JOINT EMBLEM (29 May 4 June 1992), and the Ex

LOCSEN UK EYES A SECRET