COMISIAL
interpreted as "sweated labour". He thought that Lord Shepherd alght elaborate on this when he saw r. Chung and elƉo suggest that Dr. Chung should have a talk with Mr. Foggon.
Hong Kong Government Representative in London
4.
Dr. Chun said that in the light of the merger there was a growing feeling in Hong Kong that they should be represented in London by a non-official who could express the views of the people of Hong Kong and not just of the official Government. Sir Arthur Galsworthy explained that representation of a dependent territory in London by a non-official was commonly regarded as the precursor of independence. It would not be to Hong Kong's advantage if Peking thought that Hong Kong was on the road to independence. He also explained that the merger had not affected the expertise in the office dealing with Hong Kong, nor had it in any way lessened the British Government's direct
responsibility for llong Kong. This was demonstrated by their decision to retain a very substantial garrison in Hong Kong whereas they wore withdrawing their forces entirely from the independent Commonwealth countries of Malaysia and Singapore. He added that the best service Dr. Chun, and his colleagues could do ould be to pay frequent visits to this country and make their views known to Britis. Ministers and the British people. Dr. Chung continued to press his point and hoped that at least some compromise might be reached, but bir Arthur Galsworthy held out no hope of this.
5.
I have asked Fr. Carter to consider whether any further briefing on these points is necessary.
Copies to:
Sir Arthur Galsworthy Dr. Carter
L
CONFIDENTIAL
(J. 0. Foreton)
14 Novesber 1968.