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circles in Hong Kong, knowledge of the specific solution we
have in mind, and the fact that approaches have already been
made to the Chinese,,has been restricted to a very small circle
of those who need to know. It is essential to maintain secrecy
at this stage. The subject is highly sensitive, and a premature
disclosure of our intentions could cause damaging speculation
in Hong Kong. It would certainly puzzle the Chinese.
4. In these circumstances Mr Parry's Question is best side-
stepped. I have consulted the Governor, who agrees with the
and the Embassy in Peking FED/also agree.
form of words proposed.
In Sunderen
RJT McLaren
25 July 1979
Hong Kong and General Department
сс
Mr Rushford, Legal Advisers
Mr Samuel, FED
CONFIDENTIAL
hikmatin
25 2.6y
July