i
OTHER DEFENCE SALES
4.
We hope for a wide and substantial relationship
with the Chinese and we are prepared to consider Chinese requests for British military equipment on a case-by-case basis. We are willing in principle to supply some items of equipment,
subject to our international obligations.
POSSIBLE REACTIONS OF OUR ALLIES/ THE SOVIET UNION/ SOUTH EAST
ASIAN COUNTRIES
5.
In considering defence sales to China, as with
defence sales to any other country, the Government will bear
in mind the views of other governments.
The development
of our relations with China is not directed against the
Soviet Union.
POSSIBLE EFFECTS ON DETENTE
6.
We do not believe that the supply of Harriers to
China would affect the strategic balance. Nor do we believe
that any other sales which might be approved need affect
East-West relations or detente to which we continue to attach
importance.
7.
HAS COCOM APPROVED ANY PARTICULAR DEFENCE SALES TO CHINA?
It has been the practice of successive Governments
not to reveal details of exchanges within the context of
COCOM. To function effectively COCOM, to which we continue
to attach importance, needs to maintain the convention whereby its discussions remain confidential.
HONG KONG
8.
We enjoy very good relations with the Chinese Government over Hong Kong and share with them an interest in
Hong Kong's continuing stability and prosperity. The
Governor of Hong Kong's visit to China earlier this year
was very successful and further improved our mutual
understanding over matters of common
interest.
19.