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10.
If Malaysia were included, it might be less easy to ask Hong Kong
to make a contribution to the costs. But if it were to be decided
that Hong Kong must contribute, then it would seem equitable for the
common costs of such a visit, e.g. on transport, to be shared between the Foreign and Commonwealth Services Vote and the Hong Kong Government
in proportion to the time spent in Malaysia and Hong Kong respectively. Whether or not Malaysia is included, it is suggested that our votes should bear (as they did in 1961) the whole of such incidental expenses as dresses for the ladies and presents; it would, we consider, be
very difficult to ask Hong Kong for reimbursement of these items of
expenditure.
11. In the course of our discussions with the Governor he suggested Flag B
that, in order to minimise the costs of the visit, Her Royal Highness
might be willing to travel with a small retinue and that the Royal
Party might travel by scheduled BOAC service. These proposals would of course require the approval of Her Royal Highness; and might in
any case need to be modified or abandoned if HRH is to visit Malaysia
as well. But it is understood that there would be no objection in
principle to the use of a scheduled BOAC service.
12.
On the timing of a visit, the Governor has informally indicated
a preference for September, i.e., shortly before he lays down his
Commission. During March and April he will be proccupied with the
Budget session of the Legislative Council and Expo 70. Thereafter
until September the weather is not suitable. It is understood that
Her Royal Highness would prefer to visit Hong Kong while Sir David and Lady Trench (whom she knows very well) are still there.
13.
The terms of this submission have been agreed with Protocol and Conference Department and (in so far as they relate to Malaysia) with South West Pacific Department.
19 January, 1970
Copy to:
Mr. Mayall
Mr. Aiers
Mr. Fingland
Sir S. Tomlinson
6.2. Carter
(W. S. Carter)
Hong Kong Department
I fully support the recommendation Kun hiff
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DN Greenbull 71.