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the people of Hong Kong.
A visit by a member of the Royal Family
would be a most effective and desirable way of doing thist it
would also provide a great fillip to local morale and fit recognition
of the immense and successful efforts which the Colony has made to
meet its very difficult post-war problems,
4. On the other hand, it could do immense harm to confidence in
the Colony if a strong Chinese reaction forced us to cancel a
Royal Visit after it had been publicly announced or if such a visit
took place in conditions of widespread demonstrations or even
disorders. All this could serve only to underline our impotence
in the face of Chinese pressure and the Colony's dependence on
Chinese goodwill.
5. When the Committee last considered this matter, the Communist
campaign of violence in Hong Kong was in full swing, Since the
end of 1967 violence has virtually coased and there has been a
slight improvement in Anglo-Chinese relations, But it is quite
certain that Communist confrontation in the Colony will continue
with the blessing of the Chinese People's Government (C.P.0.)
Although it is probable that it will take the non-violent form of a
long term ideological struggle for the hearts and minds of the
people, isolated acts of violence cannot be ruled out; nor can
the possibility be ignored of Peking-inspired agitation against a
Royal Visit once the news became public that such a visit was to
take place, It is possible that a further improvement in Anglo-
Chinese relations may take place by the end of June; but
regrettably, it must be accepted that in the context of Hong Kong
there is every prospect that the attitude of China will remain
hostile and unpredictable for so long as Hong Kong romaine under
British control.
6. The Governor has stated that if a Royal Visit were to be
approved and on the basis that it would last three or four days,
a minimum of four months would be needed for planning, although
this
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