CONFIDENTIAL
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fundamental interests, or failing to consult fully.
5.
We now have to decide what to do about the death penalty
for the future. No decisions have been taken, and the situation
in Hong Kong, including the state of public opinion, will be
fully taken into account in any decision that we do take.
6. Once again it will be of the greatest importance to Hong
Kong and to us to ensure that, whatever happens, a constitutional
row does not develop between Britain and Hong Kong. For this we
need the help and advice of our friends the senior members of
Executive and Legislative Councils. So does the Governor.
7. We will therefore welcome the advice of Sir Y K Kan and his
colleagues, both now and as the situation develops.
Hong Kong & Indian Ocean Department
5 June 1973
CONFIDENTIAL