with
69
Mr. Wilford
Hong Kong Defence Contribution
I attach a draft reply to Mr. Blackwell's telegram
number BTC 84. The Ministry of Defence agree that the Commander British Forces should not discuss defence costs with
Unofficial Members of the Councils.
2.
Mr. Blackwell is basing his request on sub paragraph (c)
of the terms of reference of the Information Section of the
Trade Commission "discreetly to promote an understanding of Britain's general, domestic and overseas policies". I cannot believe, however, that it was the intention when these terms of
reference were agreed that he should weigh-in in a matter of this kind. After we have got this telegram away, we shall have to look into this carefully.
ER.
E. σ. Laird
Hong Kong Department
2 November, 1970.
witt
The
agree
you reply.
important
word you
quote
about
is
discreetly"!
Gammiera
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