Alfred Morris, M.P. House Of Commons London SWIA QAA
2 Chilmark Drive
Baguley
Wytnenanawe
M/c 23.
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26/6/78.
f
Dear Alf Morris,
Thank you very much for the trouble you've taken in pursuing the matter of the Hong Kong repatriations and in eliciting the reply from the Foreign Secretary.
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Now, I suppose, the matter rests. I cannot say I am wholly satisfied with Dr. Owen's account of things. Did 4,792 people (I am glad the figure is lower than that quoted in "Private Eye") really quit their nome- land for totally apolitical reasons? And again, can we trust the Chinese authorities when they say that tne refugees are regarded as having committed no more than a civil offence. "There is no evidence that they are narsnly treated". But what evidence do we have for anything that goes on inside China? You and I are in no position to contest the Foreign Office's affirmations. All we can do is ask awkward questions. Thank you for asking this one on our behalf.
I can hardly request you to push this matter any further at the moment. The query has been registered, which is probably all we can hope. for. You have done a splendid job and we are very grateful.
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