노
CONFIDENTIAL
7.
that the Hong Kong Government and police had reacted to the recent disturbances in a moderate way. The atmosphere there
had now become more relaxed and surely this in itself was a
sign that Britain was ready to see a happier relationship
between Britain and China. He was sure that if the
Chinese Government could only take some of the steps he
(Lord Shepherd) had outlined, it would bring about the
desired effect.
12. In closing Lord Shepherd told the Charge that he was
grateful for his coming to see him and said that he looked
forward to meeting him more informally on some other occasion
when between them they might explore ways and means of
improving relations between the two countries.
13.
Concluding Shen P'ing said that obviously Lord Shepherd
was very familiar with the past history of Hong Kong and
present conditions there. Since the subject had been
mentioned again he felt obliged to say a few further words.
Although Hong Kong had been under British control for over
100 years, it was nevertheless Chinese territory. The
Chinese position on this was abundantly clear. The patriotic
Chinese in Hong Kong could not be deprived of their right to
run their own newspapers. The Chinese Government were
rightly concerned with the Chinese people in Hong Kong.
14. The meeting which lasted about 14 hours was conducted
in a fairly relaxed atmosphere.
10 January, 1969
CONFIDENTIAL
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