(HKK 1/10)
CONFIDENTIAL
15 July, 1969
30
We have today sent you a telegram to let you know that Colin Jackson, M.P., will be visiting Hong Kong from 10 to 15 August as part of a tour of Asia that he is making in his capacity as Chairman of the Fabian International Bureau and of the Council for Education in the Commonwealth.
Jackson is a barrister, lecturer and broadcaster and before he became an M.P. he was a freelance journalist (indeed he still indulges in journalism). Last year he toured a number of South American countries and our Missions in those countries went to considerable trouble on his behalf in laying on programmes and in arranging for him to meet various dignitaries etc. Subsequent reports on his tour were mixed; he was described as being good value and a stimulating visitor to take about, but as being extraordinarily exigent where his own arrangements were concerned and as expecting everything to be laid on for him. He has travelled exten- sively in the Middle East and is known in Parliament for his interest in Middle East affairs and for his pro-Arab views. During his South American tour he gave a number of lectures on the general subject of "Britain today" and has said that he would, if asked, be very willing to do the same thing on this trip.
He has visited Hong Kong on previous occasions but his last such visit took place some nine years ago.
I hope you will find the above information of some use to you.
I know that you like to have advance information of this kind in connection with visits by Members of Parliament, particularly if they are prone to indulge in journalism
His Excellency,
(W. S. Carter)
Sir David Trench, G.C.M.G., M.C.,
Government House,
HONG KONG,
CONFIDENTIAL
RET
Acf.
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