ATC.8/240/1
Copy for Hwiz 13/2
2nd March, 1967.
7.
I last wrete to you on the subject of the Kai-Tak runway extension on 3rd June last year, with the not very hopeful news that the Ministry of Aviation (whose functions in this respect have since been transferred to the Board of Trade) would be prepared to consider a reasoned case for assistance but could not in any case contemplate financing the total cost of a project of this size. Hy letter cressed yours (BL.2/926/65) of the 1st June.
2.
Since then we have made enquiries to ascertain whether this particular source of funds has dried upaltogether as a result of the present severe restrictions en overseas expenditure. The advice we were given towards the end of last year was that at that point of time there was no chance at all of obtaining funds from that source,
3.
It remains to consider, therefore, whether it is worth your while to prepare a detailed case for consideration here and I raise this point now because I imagine you will shortly be taking this matter up again in the light of the results of the feasibility and cost survey by lessrs. Scott, Wilson, Kirkpatrick and Partners which you mentioned in your letter of the 1st June. Although I cannot held out hopes of success, my advice is that you do put in your case as soon as you are ready with it; we will then make what play we can with it, in the light of the financial climate when we receive it and in whatever quarter seems appropriate at the time.
4.
There are two points I suggest you bear in mind in frening your proposals. A bid for part assistance towards financing the project is likely to be much more favourably regarded then one involving U.k.financing of the entire project. A loon (on the lines of the 1959 arrangement) is the most we could hope to achieve.
M.D. A. Clinton Esq.,
Colonial Secretariat,
HON KOHO.
(...Carter)