Relations between Chine and Hong Kong
1967,
The situation in Hong Kong is now back to normal after the
disturbances of 1967. At the same time, the normal working
relationship between China and Hong Kong, which existed before
appears to have been resumed. For our part, we shall continue to
foster normal relations between Hong Kong and China, and this is
very much to the benefit of both sides, At the same time the rule
of law must continue to be maintained in Hong Kong.
ŝino/British Relations
Our relations with China have certainly begun to improve,
although so long as British subjects are detained in China this
improvement will inevitably be limited,
official contacts have netertheless been rather more relaxed,
while commercial relations are entering upon a much more active phase,
The Chinese are of course expanding their foreign trade
generally!
the total volume of China's foreign trade with Western
Europe and Japan rose from £536 million in 1967 to £617 million
last year. I am confident that we shall be able to contribute
further to this expansion. It will clearly be to the benefit of
both sides to work for closer relations and to allow more regular
contacts at all levels.
British Cargo liner services to Chine vera sumended in March, 1979.
What has been the effect on trade of #thi?
It is for shipowners to decide when to suspend or resume the
services;
although in view of the detention of British seamen in
Chinese ports and of the uncertainty about port regulations a cortain
reluctance to take more risks would be understandable. As for tho
effect on trade, it is still too early to tell.
/ Defense ...