0003160 G.F. 316
t
SECRET
May, 1969.
245/5/
Countering Subversion Government Policies.
-
We have been working for some time on a paper which, set in the context of Communist policy, tactics and capabilities, would reflect the underlying policy and aims of the Hong Kong Government in the development and maintenance of economic and social programmes which, together with our security arrangements, would have the effect of combating - indeed forestalling subversion in Hong Kong. A paper has now been approved, of which a copy is enclosed; in order to help those who receive it and those who are authorised to read it, I am writing this letter by way of background and to give an indication of the use to which the paper should be put.
2.
Since the abandonment of their more extreme and violent subversive measures at the beginning of 1968, the Communists have been pursuing a policy of non-violent struggle. Let there be no mistake about this. The Communists have in no sense abandoned their offorts to secure control over Hong Kong affairs their purpose in this respect is unchanged, but their methods have altered. They aro directing, and are expected to continue to direct, their main effort towards broadening the base of their support among the population at large. In most fields except education and certain sectors of public transport these efforts have so far borne little fruit and their morale generally is fairly low. But they are prepared for a long campaign and we must equally be ready to match them on a long-term basis.
3.
Their drive to win widor support by posing as champions of the people, who are moro considerate of their needs and interests than the authorities, and by avoiding actions likely to give them, in the public eye, a reputation for irresponsibility, will remain, along with the expansion of "patriotic" education, a primary objective. Without risking a major clash and while enjoying and exploiting the economic benefits of the Colony, the Communists will continue to strive to erode the position of Government. They have the capacity
SECRET
/ and