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23. Hong Kong would, of course, prefer a new quota. But since
this will be extremely difficult to obtain it is probably best for
the Territory not to press for the existing allocation to be used
up too quickly. Provided that we can continue to state (as Ministers
have recently done in Parliament) that we are working on the basis
of the existing quota, there is a reasonable chance of persuading
the US, Canada etc to continue their key off-take of refugees
from Hong Kong.
MR RIDLEY'S VISIT TO HONG KONG
I
24. Draft programme is attached.
Seems fine. Mr Ridley will see
a good deal of Hong Kong, much of it from a helicopter, will meet
local leaders and have a chance to discuss with them and senior
officials topical issues. - Second and third meetings on 17 November
could perhaps be combined.
MACLENNAN INQUIRY REPORT
25. Suicide of Hong Kong Police Inspector MacLennan, who was about
to be arrested for homosexual offences, led to sensational allegations
of conspiracy by policy in Hong Kong. There was some UK interest,
including PQs. Governor appointed Commission of Inquiry to look into
allegations. Report, a lengthy one, now received.
unfavourable though it is critical of Hong Kong Attorney-General,
Commissioner of Police and Mrs Elsie Elliott, an elected Urban
Councillor.
Generally not
The report is to be presented to EXCO who will decide
whether it should be published.
If, as seems likely, it is decided
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