CONFIDENTIAL
Hong Kong's case in person. If he does not do so, there will be
a body of opinion in Hong Kong asserting that we had been
unwilling to listen to his case. Such a visit would not,
however, be of much use until the full Commission breakdown
of figures is available. This suggests the Governor might
return to London at the earliest next week. I would see
advantage in arranging for Sir M MacLehose to see Mr Dell,
who could explain the Government's broad preoccupations on
the Multi Fibre Arrangement, as well as the Secretary of State
or other FCO Ministers.
14.
It will be necessary to obtain clearance of the line proposed in paragraph 12 above with other Whitehall Departments and with Number 10, given the Prime Minister's
great interest in this subject and in the British bid for
the China Light and Power Company contract.
RECOMMENDATION
15.
(a)
(b)
(c)
16.
I therefore recommend that:
the Secretary of State should minute to the Prime
Minister in the terms of the attached draft;
depending on the replies received the Governor
should be invited to return for consultations; and
Sir D Maitland should be instructed to speak informally
to Commissioner Davignon on the lines suggested in
paragraph 12 above.
Hong Kong and General Department agree.
MRH Jenkins
12 September 1977
European Integration Dept (External)