HwB 18165
Mr. Godden (on return)
You will recall that we provisionally arranged for Lord Shepherd to see the Heung Yee Kuk delegation at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, 21 February. (They arrive here on Friday, 19 January). At the same time we discussed the possibility of the Minister putting in an appearance at a social event to be organised by Mr. Sedgwick in their honour at the Hong Kong Government Office. It was thought that if the Minister was engaged in the final stages of the Swaziland Conference at that time he could probably still slip over the road from Marlborough House for half an hour. Mr. Sedgwick is now arranging a cocktail party for Thursday, 22 February (5.30 -
7 p.)
2. The delegation have asked if they could see The queen. It is realised by Hong Kong officials that this is not really on: these people do not fall within the category to be received in Audience by The Queen, This consideration apert, I doubt whether we could advise that Her Majesty should see then. They represent the people of the leased territory and there could be an adverse C.F.G. reaction (which is the last thing we want at this time). It is desirable, however, that we handle this request tactfully and the Minister could, I suggest, play a pert here. I shall express regret that it has not been possible to arrange for them to see The queen. Then the Minister sees the delegation he might mention this and say that, as one of Her Majesty's Ministers, he is receiving them on her behalf'. Perhaps we could have a word about this at an early opportunity after your return?
17 January, 1968
(W.S. Carter)
Copy to: Mr. Gaminara
Gami
R.318/
PA on file
DES
18.
1.68.