194

I

195

CONFIDENTIAL COVERING SECRET

-4-

later if enforcement led to incidents eg over arrests of illegals.

Meanwhile Ministers would be in a strong position to answer questions

on the basis of Hong Kong's social and economic problems, the

Secretary of State's discussion with Huang Hua and the Governor's

talks in Guangdong.

Further Action in Peking

11.

Although the Chinese have now had ample warning of the Hong

Kong Government's intentions to introduce measures, it would be

helpful for HM Ambassador, Peking, to tell the Foreign Ministry

formally. The Governor (Hong Kong Telegram No 1315) hopes that

this can be done at the last possible moment in case of Chinese

objections. There is no reason to suspect that the Chinese will

object, and we should leave Sir P Cradock with discretion in the

timing of his approach, but to meet Sir M MacLehose's wishes,

it would probably be sufficient if HM Ambassador took action when

the Governor is in Guangdong, on the lines suggested by Sir M MacLehose

(Hong Kong Telegram No 1316).

in

R D Clift

8 October 1980

сс

PS/Mr Blaker PS/RPS

PS/PUS FED

3

the ground

Hong Kong and General Department

agree.

The Secrevary of State has prepared in his discussion with Stuang Hua, and subjter to Sir M. Machchose obtaining satisfactory assurances about Chinese Cooperation from the Guangdong leaders, I think it is important to let the Governor of Ith proceed without further

No London.

reference

back

CONFIDENTIAL COVERING SECRET

Astmald 8710

Share This Page