-2-
to incur expenses of the same order again without adequate safeguards.
5. I imagine that it would be difficult for the MTA to change its ground rules at this stage. However, I understand that the EGCI's counter proposals are now being considered in Hong Kong and there will be an opportunity for further consultations between the two sides when Mr Thompson, the Chairman designate of the Hass Transit Corporation, visits London next month. Mr Kidd has today spoken to Mr Thompson on the telephone. I attach a note of their conversation, together with a covering letter from Mr Kidd to me.
6. In the circumstances of your visit, I would recommend that you should see the representatives if only for public relations purposes and in the best interests of Hong Kong's image with an important sector of British industry. quite clearly, however, there is little you could do at the meeting other than to listen to what they have to say and to agree to pass on their representations to Mr Thompson. You will see from the attachment to Mr Kidd's letter of 9 April to
me that Mr Thompson does not object to this course.
PL O'Keeffe
9 April 1975
Hong Kong & Indian Ocean Dept.
CONFIDENTIAL
}