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think it would be a good idea to do this before the officials talks on Monday. I think it would raise their blood pressure too much. But perhaps after the first round of talks, we should send it under a Private Secretary letter as an indication of the strength of feeling in Hong Kong in order to emphasise the need for some action on the Bill.
8.
As for a possible visit by the Governor, he has not himself put this to us and Mr Ford's judgement is that we should not raise it with him at present. I certainly do not think it would be a good idea for him to come apparently in association with the latest extreme demands by the Unofficials. Nor would it be appropriate or helpful for him to join in the official talks with the Home Office. I think therefore that, if he raises the point with us, we should advise him to keep a visit in reserve until we see how the official talks go. We might find it useful to bring the Governor into play in order to stress the need for some action within the Bill.
9. In view of Hong Kong's increasing concern, I think it would be very helpful if Mr Ford could after all join the official talks. I know that Mr Adams has some doubts on this but it would be helpful for the Governor, who could tell Unofficials that 'their' Commissioner was associated with the discussions. I therefore suggest that we put this proposal to the Home Office,
10. I am minuting separately on a letter which Mr Ray Whitney MP has written to Mr Luce.
Blip
R D Clift
19 February 1981
Hong Kong and General Department
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Mr Adams'
Mr Jones, NTD
Mr Morrice/Mr Williamson
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