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15 NPW visits per year to Hong Kong.
The criterion for the restriction,
however, is the actual time spent in a berth, and not the number of visits made (each of which could of course be of varied duration). In precise terms, Hong Kong may be visited by NPWs for only 91 ship-days in any consecu- tive 365 days. This period is sufficient to cover the present operational requirements of both UK and US NPWs.
6. I suggest therefore that, notwithstanding paragraph 2 of your letter, the way ahead is for you and the Hong Kong Government to consider, together with your advisers in SRD/UKAEA and the Department of Trade, whether any duration restrictions should be placed on civil visits, and what form any safety organisation should take. If it is decided that MOD advice on the form of a new safety scheme is desired, no doubt you will let us know in good time it may be necessary for our expert to go to Hong Kong specifically for this purpose.
7. I hope this gives you a clearer picture of the essentially limited nature of MOD involvement. I might perhaps stress what I have said before, that in arranging the visit full account must be taken of the operational requirements of the Navy and indeed the Americans on which the local advice of the Captain-in-Charge, Hong Kong should be sought.
8.
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I should be grateful to be kept abreast of developments.
Yours,
Try Boardre
PP/5
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