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candidate for independence in the foreseeable future. In the case of Hong Kong we are only at the stage of having agreed amongst ourselves that we should aim to make an approach to the Chinese some time in the first half of the 1980s. I do not imagine that anything much can be done about the BIOT and the BAT. In the case of the former, the Anglo/US agreements concerning the American defence facility on Diego Garcia, the only island in use in the BIOT, are what matter and the question of constitutional progress does not arise.
5. This said, it is clear that we should remain on the look- out for any chance of making quicker progress towards de- colonisation in any of the remaining territories where special external considerations do not exist. Any pressure from inside or outside these territories for a further move away from the UK could be encouraged, provided that we retain sufficient powers to exercise those responsibilities that have to remain to us and the way is opened to an ultimate break. While this department may be able to help in spotting any opportunities for further de-colonisation that may arise, I think it will have to be left primarily to individual geographical departments to see what can be done.
28 April 1977
cc: Mr Jasper
DF Milton
,
Hong Kong & General Department K 247
233 4381
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