о
Miss Lovering (Sensitivity Review Unit, Library & Records, CW 328)
HONG KONG: 1947 PAPERS
1. You asked for my views on three pre-1947 files due for release soon.
2. In my view they should not be released. My reasons are much the same as those of Mr Howard:
that
(a) F12423/G: I agree with the fact that the writer of the letter on this file regards it as debatable whether HMG will decide "on a policy of holding on to long kong at least for some time to come" makes it inadvisable that this file be released.
(b) F14249: The crucial fact here is, I think, the
mention of the possibility of the New Territories being returned without Hong Kong.
(c)
F15520/G: I am not so convinced about this file but on balance agree with the fact that it records an official view that Hong Kong even in 1947, might have to be returned necessitates its retention.
29 April 1977
T J David
Hong Kong & General Department K 247
233 4777