SECRET
CDS Drace-Francis Esq
2
4 February 1977
specific request of the Americans, who wished to have the option to pay up to 15 NPW visits per year to Hong Kong. The criteria for the restriction, however, is the actual time spent in a berth and the number of visits made (each of which could of course be of varied duration). In precise terms, they say, Hong Kong may be visited by NPWs for only 91 ship-days in any consecutive 365 days. This period is sufficient to cover the present operational requirements of both UK and US NPWs.
5. The MOD suggest,- and I have nothing better to offer at this stage - that the way ahead on this is for the Hong Kong Government and the FCO (along with our advisers in SRD/UKEA and the DOT) to consider whether any duration restrictions should be placed on civil visits, and what form any safety organisation should take. The MOD add that, if their advice on any form of new safety scheme is desired, we should let them know in good time as it may be necessary for an MOD expert to visit you specifically for this purpose.
copies:
Mr Makepeace
Miss Darling
Mr Orr FED
ENERGY DEPT NAD
Mr Fuller DEFENCE DEPT
Mr Free-Gore M & GD
Mr Boardman
DS16 MOD
↑ J David
HONG KONG DEPARTMENT
SECRET