the economie infrastructure, the prezmures to give priority to
measures of social betterment have increased and will continus to
increase. A parochial view of such matters is not uncommon in Hong Kong and on the question of the airport views have already been freely and publicly expressed that the princi al beneficiary of the improvements would be the 1.K. rather than Hong Kong.
30. If we want to ensure that the project takes full account of our aviation intureats the only way la by muking a contribution. And
there is the added factor of our wider politicul interest in maintaining confidence in Hong Kanies » unless publicly and candidly explained in sympathetic terms, a refusal to assist in a project so closely concerning U„š. interests must be interpreted locally in a vay that could affect publie confidence in Hong Kong, It is understandable in the circumstances of Hong Kong that people should anxiously watch for any sign that we might be proparing to pull out ̈ and convai sely should greatly value indications that we are deeply involved in the territory and its problems. For eone yeɑrs nov there has been a growing feeling in Hong Kong that Britain regards the Coleny as a nuisance and an impediment. Ve left Hong Kong to grapple alone in the post-war years with the tremendous problems posed by the influx of refugees from China. seen as having dealt the Colony a series of blows to its trade ja
financest the restrictions on ita exports of cotton textilee to this country since 1959, the import surcharge (1964), the "carry-over" controversy (1965), the increase in the defence contribution (1966), devaluation (1967), the import deposit scheme (1968). Our actions
At the same time we are
are noen en showing a lack of concern for Hong Kong's interests and for her special problema; as indicating an indifference to the special ties and relationship which should subsist between a Colony end the responsible power. This project in which our interests ar so greatly involved is an ideal vehicle for making the kind of gesture of support and assistance that is needed.
32.
If Hong Kong decided after all to shoulder the full development proposals alone following upon our refusal to amnist, it can be expected that relations with the Colony will remain difficult, particularly in the aviation field where Hong Kong will be
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