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Governor in writing and at the present time when Sir Murray MacLehose understandably feels under pressure from us both in response to the NEC's representations and in the light of the OPD's views on sharing of the costs of the garrison. Mr Donald acknowledged these difficulties and said that his own views should be regarded as personal at this stage since he has not broached them with the Governor. But if the idea is judged to have merit, Lord Goronwy- Roberts might put it to Sir Murray in the course of the latter's
visit to London in November.
9.
He
Mr Bentley agrees these ideas are worth pursuing. and I will discuss this submission with Mr Youde probably on Tuesday
next if you agree. I understand Lord Goronwy-Roberts wants a meeting next week to discuss the long range planning paper. I asked if this
could be towards the end of the week so that we can have the benefit
of Mr Youde's views on the above beforehand; and I understand it
has now been arranged for Thursday 11 September at 11.00 a.m.
Pulaft
PL O'Keeffe
Hong Kong & Indian Ocean Dept.
2 September 1975
I agree that these thoughts are worth pursing and that in particular Mr Youde's views are of great importance.
1.
2.
For my part I find the outline presented above attractive.
3. i should record however that when r Donald came to see me on 1 September he described the personal thoughts he had put to Mr O'Keeffe and told me that on subsequent reflection he was not happy with what he had canvassed. Broadly he was now more inclined to assess the likely Chinese reaction in Hong Kong gloomily and to think that the appointment of a representative would erode confidence and make the business of governing that much the more difficult. In practical terms there was no foreseeable need to move towards Peking until the shadow of 1997 was evident. On this timing movement in the first half of the 1980s would be necessary, giving a run-up of 12 to 15 years to the formal ending of the lease of the new territories.
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