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resolved to prepare the ground for future Sino-British negotiations; and
it was hoped, further British concessions.
19.
This directive is the latest statement of future communist policy
towards Hong Kong, and confirms earlier indications that the communists
intend to allow open confrontation with the Hong Kong Government to fade
However, it cannot be interpreted as an instruction for a complete
return to the state of affairs pertaining before confrontation, rather
that there will be a more subtle and long term campaign to win by stealth
that which could not be obtained by violence.
away.
:
Future Communist Tactics
20.
The communist leadership in the Colony is well aware of the need
to consolidate their own ranks and obtain a wider measure of support from
the local population if they are to make any progress.
Their endeavours
to meet both aims since the beginning of the year have met with little
success and this latest directive from China provides no fresh initiatives.
The greatest solace they may be able to find in it is that clearly the Peking
authorities do appreciate some of their difficulties.
21.
It seems likely that, in general, communist activity in Hong Kong
will follow much the same lines as that seen during recent months. Overt
compliance with the law in all spheres of communist influence will be
emphasized and even more widespread measures will be taken to avoid any clash
While we can expect the communist press to continue
attacking Government it seems probable that an even milder tone will be
adopted and more effort will be taken to seek out genuine grievances to
exploit, and to present more credible propaganda. This is likely to be the
with Government.
case also in the other sections of the communist propaganda organisation.
The lessening of pressure to propagate MAO's Thoughts, which seems implicit
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