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have an influence, the movement is now Chinese dominated. It is still small and has not yet been particularly successful. It aims at influencing students, but most of those who have occasionally taken part in its activities remain on the fringes of it: hardly any belong to its tiny hard core. It is already a nuisance and represents a potential threat to security.
43.
A students
Many of those connected with it are amongst the more intelligent and idealistic young people here. The majority of them have only reached the questi oning and discussion stage, though occasionally active when a cause catches their imagination. They may be prepared to use their energies for reform within the existing social framework, if not alienated.
44.
The main present danger is that protest meetings may lead to disorder: in the general circumstances of Hong Kong there is always a possibility that lawless elements may join in or exploit what starts as a peaceful demonstration.
45.
In the longer term there may be more
The
general dissatisfaction (often resulting from simple ignorance rather than deliberate malice) with Government's policies and performance, or a loss of confidence in the Colony's future. consequences could be a spread of radical ideas and a determination to erode Government's authority.
46.
The local communists have so far kept abreast of the situation which they may in future seek to exploit.
Recommendations
47.
Special Branch already provides continuing information about the organization and activities of the New Left
and related student groups. Its scale of effort should be increased if more young people become involved in the movement and communist interest in this grows.
48.
Certain public places should insofar as possible continue to be made available for demonstrations so people can let off steam without «lashing with the Police, even though such places may be considered unsatisfactory by the New Left.
A
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CONFIDENTIAL