I'm in the process of removing rear IRS on my 87 XJS. I've got exhaust disconnected, drive shaft disconnected and now want to disconnect hand brake cable at the rear end. It is not evident to me how to do this. Can someone please explain how to do this. Thank You.

 

If I remember correctly, Pop the springs out of the handbrake arms. Then pull really hard on the end of the cable and arm, to separate them so that you can get the cable end thingy out of the arm. Once that's free its pretty easy to slide it out of the other arm.
When reassembling, start with the intermediate arm, then go to the end arm. You'll need an assistant to raise and lower the handle to release the mechanism. This is essential, since the spring thinks the handbrake is on as soon as you start messing with it.

 

Hi Ratcat

Easy way to disconnect the Handbrake Cable on an XJS

Easy way to disconnect the Handbrake Cable on an XJS

Once the Cable has been disconnected DO NOT pull on the Handbrake or it could jump the Ratchet and be very hard to get back

 

If needed get someone to pull the hand brake cable while you lift and lower the handle.
This will allow the handbrake cable to pull out if needed.

Gareth is correct, as is OB - pull the handbrake levers together and remove end one, then you can remove the middle attachment.
Same when putting it back.