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the close personal interest of the Foreign Secretary. should be development in the commercial as well as in the political field. The present level of trade between Britain and China was small. He had been pleased to hear of the important visits to Britain recently made by Chinese delegations. He hoped their impressions were good and that there would be more such visits in the near future.
5.
Mr Han said that Mr Ku Ming's impression had been very favourable. He was optimistic about the prospects of expansion in trade and economic relations. He hoped that, now the Ambassador had arrived, good relations would continue between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy as during the time of his predecessor, Sir Edward Youde. HA said that he and all at the Embassy were eager to help in the development of relations. He also understood that two British Ministers were shortly to pay visits to China, Mrs Williams and Mr Dell. If Hr Han or any of his colleagues in the MFA had any request to make of him he would always be at their disposal.
6. Mr Han said he was pleased to hear that more British friends were coming to China. He told HMA that it would be possible for his Credentials to be presented formally the next day, ie 15 June. HMA said he was grateful that this had been arranged; it meant he could start work soon. Mr Han said that there was not a very strict attitude about this in China : new Ambassadors were allowed to carry out their normal functions even before they had presented their credentials. IMA said that it was nevertheless very kind that matters had been arranged so quickly. He handed over copies of his credentials and of the letter of recall of Sir Edward Youde.
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Far Eastern Department FCO
Political Adviser E HONG KONG
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