In today's @Telegraph, I offered @amendelson_ what some might consider a controversial take that recent PLA purges will affect the PRC's ability and/or willingness to prosecute a Taiwan contingency. Here is what I said: “Morale is really low. Everyone is looking over their shoulder and everyone is worried that their patronage network of getting promoted through the ranks is being questioned and scrutinised.” While some China watchers maintain that within a highly centralised system like the PLA it does not matter who sits in what seat, others, like Mr Morris, disagree, especially when it comes to Taiwan. “There’s no way it can’t affect planning for a Taiwan contingency,” he said. “He Weidong was one of the most experienced planners for a Taiwan contingency, probably in the top two or three, and now he’s gone and all his underlings are gone. That affects planning all throughout the force, there’s a trickle down effect.” Thanks to @amendelson_ for the opportunity to share my thoughts. With @wentisung and @KTristanTang. telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2…