{ to grass indignitu
hand, there are strong reasons against volun-
teering any apology. British public opinion
would ot understand that we should rush in
with an apology for an accidental navigational
having subjected error, where the Chinese, jetted every
n
sydignity on our Representatives China and
abused
sh
authorities in Londony rejected our
and Hong Kong, showing no compunction at all
and insisted on justifying
when protests aim their atrocious
behaviour.Peking would almost certainly publi-
entr
cise our explanation as an attempt to cover
as/an
up a deliberate provocation or abject
latter
would not help to maintain
surrender. The would
public morale in Hong Kong.
IL howev
3. the Chinese, may, however, themselves
protest to you against these over-flights,
ye, you should give them a brief and
straightforward explanation, emphasizing that
the infringements were accidental and stating
that they are under further investigation.
4. If the Chinese publicise these over-flights
and there are any Press enquiries, News Depart-
ment will reply along similar lines.
30 Dd.033246 600m 9/66 G.W.B.Ltd. Gp.863
NOTHING TO BE WRITTEN IN THIS MARGIN
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