SECRET
Discussions in Hong Kong
3. In any discussion in Hong Kong with unofficials present it is important to keep to the above general line while pointing out that there are no indications at present
from the attitude of the Six as a whole that the prospects
of early British entry to the Community is on the cards. In particular the French veto imposed in January, 1963 still
stands and, although the French Government blows hot and cold from time to time, they have given no firm indication that
their veto is lifted. In addition, if and when the time
comes, Her Majesty's Government will want to be sure of entering the Community from a position of greater economic
strength than we have at present; the measures we are taking to strengthen our economy and put right the balance of payments
It is also will need time to bring about the desired effect.
important in discussion to avoid giving any assurance, other than the general assurance in the Queen's speech quoted above, about the protection of Commonwealth countries' (including Hong Kong's) interests or the means we might seek to protect But it can be said that, if and when the question of
negotiations becomes actual, we will proceed in the closest consultation with the Hong Kong Government, as with other
Commonwealth and colonial governments.
them.
4. The following points might also be made in answer
to specific questions.
(i) By what means do you expect to safeguard
Commonwealth interests? How will essential
Commonwealth interests be determined?
We think it will be some considerable time before
there will be any real opportunity of our being
able to enter into fresh negotiations. It is
impossible in these circumstances to predict
SECRET
!
/what