Sir D Watson
CONFIDENTIAL
Si duncan Watson
In Stuart
VISIT OF THE GOVERNOR OF HONG KONG
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1.
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We now have three letters from the Governor: to me of
24 January, to you of 28 January, and to Sir E Tomkins of 30 January.
2.
I have spoken to Miss Mitchell at Kensington Palace. She says Princess Alexandra has to cancel something else, but hopes to
attend. Miss Mitchell will let me know for certain this week.
3.
On the substantive proposal of a visit by the Governor, Sir Murray may expect understanding in Hong Kong. I am not so certain
of it here. Those who regard Hong Kong as a sweat shop might not fully understand the overriding need for the Governor to help Hong Kong to sell. That being said, however, I do not think we should discourage him from coming, particularly as he has already told Princess Alexandra that he will do so.
4.
I have discussed with News Department Sir Murray's offer "to stand fire from the media" during his visit. Our joint view is that it would probably be undesirable for him to give a press conference on the record. He would inevitably be put on the defensive. To the extent that he was reassuring about Hong Kong, he might even, as an official, appear to be contradicting Ministers. Any critical reports of his performance, and there would be bound to be some, could lower his position in Hong Kong. We see less objection to an unattributable press briefing of selected correspondents. This would be fully justifiable in the run-up to the Queen's visit and could be useful. There might even be room for a short agreed statement on the record. However, Mr McCaffrey's advice is that it is a long time until April, and that for the meanwhile we should keep our options open. I submit a draft letter to Sir Murray.
4 February 1975
Lettervent
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Hong Kong & Indian Ocean Dept.
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CONFIDENTIAL
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