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suggest that the C.P.G. has changed its policy towards Hong Kong or desires to "rock the boat". On the other hand, I am likely to be under increasing pressure from responsible local opinion and from the right-wing press to do something positive to preserve public confidence and to support the Police.
6. I am reluctant to take overt action against the left- wing press, if it can avoided, since it would involve a direct confrontation from which retreat on either side would be very difficult. Equally, there are limits to what can be tolerated without risk of an irretrievable loss of public confidence and abdication of authority on Macao lines.
7. Although I do not wish to suggest that an early decision is necessary, this problem is one which may very well have to be faced at some time and I should be grateful for your general views and those of Peking.
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