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CONFIDENTIAL
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12. HMG's policy towards Hong Kong on the issue has been based
on the premise that opinion in the House was against capital
punishment. It would be difficult to defend a change in that
position in the absence of a vote by Parliament to demonstrate
that there is a Parliamentary majority in favour of capital
punishment.
13.
Therefore, subject to the Governor's views, the best course
is to preserve HMG's position on the question. After the 'South
China Morning Post' article appeared, FCO Telegram No 602 of
17 July (cleared with Mr Ridley's Office) was sent, saying that
there had been no change of policy. It would, however, be helpful
to follow this up on the lines of the draft letter and telegram.
Bip
R D Clift
31 July 1981
Hong Kong and General Department
сс
Sir E Youde
Mr Ure
Mr Goodison
Mr Rushford, Legal Advisers
CONFIDENTIAL