Ir Quantrill
CONFIDENTIAL
14tk020|
LIVIO
2 6 FEB 1979
HKK 020/1
(19)
Ro. 51
No
PA
J27.2.
milate
Unfortunately, for
1. I refer to your note very understandable reasons, I was not able' to get a view on this quickly from FED.
2. FED are not happy with my suggestion and I understand lir Masefield has discussed it with Mr McLaren. Although hir Fursland has asked that his comment be ignored, it does contain the useful confirmation from Research Department that this point has not arisen before.
3. I understand that ir riclaren suggested that we do a suitable form of words and you may therefore wish to consult him. My main concern is that I am sure the Chinese do not want a confrontation over this but I am equally sure they cannot withdraw their statement.
26 February 1979
J Williamson
Hong kong and General Department
CONFIDENTIAL