Brief No. 9
VISIT OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE TO HONG KONG
APRIL 1970
HONG KONG AIRPORT RUNWAY
SPEAKING NOTES
UK Contribution to Airport Development
I very much regret that we cannot see any way at the present
time to help with this project. We are still at a stage in
strengthening our economy when we need to look very carefully at
demands on our rescurces.
If necessary
I will, however, arrange for the position to be looked at
in about a year's time with a view to secing whether it would then
be possible to help with financing the later stages of the project.
We would in particular consider the extent to which this and other
essential development projects in prospect impose a strain on the
Colony's resources.
If point is raised 7
It is true that we are increasing our aid programme; but
the demands on it are very great and we must take account of the
requirements of those countries whose need is greater than
Hong Kong's.
British Interests
There is indeed a considerable British interest in the
maintenance of the airport to adequate international standards.
/ It is
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