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10, Downing Street
Whitehall
I recall with pleasure our most useful meeting in New York last
October. In the course of our talk then on some of the economic
questions facing us, I stressed the importance which we attached
to the inclusion of Hong Kong in the Japanese scheme of generalised
preferences. I was very pleased therefore, when I saw your statement
in the Dict on 23 March recognising Hong Kong's suitability as a
beneficiary.
I
I understand, however, that the list of "sensitive" Hong Kong exports
now under consideration in Tokyo, is giving rise to difficulties.
am sure that this should not prevent a worthwhile offer to Hong Kong,
and I very much hope that you will find it possible to include
Hong Kong and other British dependent territories from the outset
in your preference scheme, as have the EEC.
I know that the Hong Kong Government are ready to send officials to
Tokyo to discuss any outstanding problems. I believe that such
discussions might lead to a rapid resolution of the difficulties, and
I suggest that they should, if possible, take place before the end
of this month. In this way, Sir Alec Douglas-Home and Mr Aichi can
have before them the necessary details, should there remain any
points still to be cleared up when they meet in London next month.
SGD (E.H.)
His Excellency Mr. Hisaku Sato