Mr. Wilford
CONFIDENTIAL
Grein
Flag
Flag
Attached
Flag
8
Flag/D
WRIBLE 2
1
Flag E
(6
Sentencing of Communist Trade Union Officials in
Hong Kong
In his telegram No. 592 of 25 July, the Governor of
Hong Kong reported the sentencing of certain communist trade
union officials to terms of imprisonment. In his telegram
No. 435 of 29 July, Mr. Denson in Peking commented that this
case could not fail to have unfortunate repercussions for
Sino-British relations. Mr. Denson followed this up with a
personal letter setting out his views at greater length.
Meanwhile the Governor of Hong Kong has telegraphed explaining
why the reasons/he felt compelled to act against the persons
concerned and in essence apologising for his failure to
consult more fully before acting. (Hong Kong telegram
No. 149 of 31 July to Peking.)
Recommendation
2. I regard the Governor's last telegram as a reasonably
handsome apology. I see no need to pursue the matter further.
I attach a draft reply to Mr. Denson to go personally from me.
Hong Kong Department agree.
Background
3.
Criticism of the handling of this matter was also
contained in a minute addressed by Mr. Foggon, Overseas Labour
Adviser, to Mr. Carter and copied to Mr. Godden.
- 1 -
CONFIDENTIAL