h
7
6
It was suggested that the Japanese efforts in Hong Kong to date had been carried out by entrepreneurs who may or may not have had the authority of those of whom they purported to speak and it was clear in private discussion that the high pressure salesmanship to which Mr Shephard and Mr Wilkins had been subjected
on their visit to Japan had been a source of embarrassment and irritation as their main pre-occupation had been to make a purely exploratory visit on a technical basis.
2
Conclusion
It was the conclusion of the Mission that there is a considerable
probability that the scheme will go ahead within the foreseeable future. There is clearly underlying goodwill towards the United Kingdom and provided adequate technical and financial.
resources are made available, there is no reason why United Kingdom sources should not get at least a very substantial part
of the business. It is now for the United Kingdom authorities and commercial intcrests to decide how best they can prepare to maximise the opportunities which may become available.
"
It is suggested that this report be circulated to the firms who
have previously expressed nine to participate and that thereafter a meeting be arranged between them in order to consider the further steps to be taken in order to reinforce the initiative
that has already been shown. This may well involve the setting up of a small steering committee to maintain continuity.
JULY 1970
DD MORRELL