Lagey
Mr W N Wenban-Smith
(Un Department) (K 150)
Reference.
NON-REGIONAL MEMBERSHIP OF ECAFE
1.
NKK 2
12 21 (18)
Ring K SAYI
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JP W/13/2 18/2
In your minute of 12 February you asked for our comments on the UK's continued membership of ECAFE.
2. Far Eastern Department's interest is to avoid an open quarrel with the Chinese over a matter which, save as regards the associate membership of Hong Kon is of little concern to us. This suggests that the best policy is to find out Chinese intentions first and then try and square them behind the scenes.
3. The issue of Hong Kong's associate membership raises certain difficulties. And our withdrawal from membership or acceptance of a more restricted status in ECAFE might_subject Hong Kong to a colder blast from the Chinses than hitherto in the organisation. But our assessment of this risk must/ depend upon what can find out about likely Chinese attitudes.
4.
You might also wish to consider consulting the Planning Staff on the merits of continued UK membersh in terms of wider British interests.
18 February 1974
Copy to
Mr Kerr, FRD.
- Mr Crowson, HKIOD
Mr Moorę. SEAD
Mr Seaward, SAD
KBR Hervey
Far Eastern Departme
DD 145177 219242 500M 4/73 GM 3643/2