Present:
HE The Governor
CS
FS
SHA
SNT
S for S
S for SS
S for I
PA
PS/GH
CONFIDENTIAL
for first item only)
Mr R D Clift
Delegations to UK
The increasing number of "delegations" of complainants from Hong Kong to the UK was discussed. Sir Jack Cater and Sir Philip Haddon-Cave explained that this resulted from a combination of the devaluation in publicity terms of petitions to Government House, the increasingly sophisticated techniques of organisers and the appearance of cheap air fares.
2.
The Governor said that it was important Ministers
and Officials approached by such groups should beware of giving them more attention than they merited. One example of this was the proposed visit by the "Wanderers" who were a Taiwan back group of no consequence and no sympathy in Hong Kong. Mr Clift explained that there was a fine balance involved. Whereas it was possible to be selective with UK groups, refusal to see HK groups might damage the Ministers staunchly supporting HK in the House. Mr Scott said that it was important nevertheless that HKG should not be seen to be reducing the legitimate right of approach of HK
citizens to the UK Government.
3.
It was agreed that Hong Kong should ensure that the FCO was kept aware of delegates and their standing and that wherever possible the FCO should provide material to S for I for the HK press immediately after meetings showing the Ministers firm agreement with HK's position. A firm public stance would serve to discourage.
CONFIDENTIAL