7.
7.
If you and David Wilson agree with this we should be grateful if you (and Hong Kong) could consult us by telegram as soon as a potential case for intervention arises. In general our view is that there should be a pre-disposition to make representations to the Chinese if requested to do so, but each case should certainly be considered on its merits and a decision taken in the light of specific circumstances. An important consideration will be to get corroboration as soon as possible of the individual's nationality status. We should prefer in future not to follow the line in para 3 of Owen's letter of 26 January ie to act first where there is any case of doubt. Although we, have to avoid potential accusations of partiality the principle of acting first should probably in future only apply to cases where prima facie there is no doubt about the Britishness of the individual concerned. Where he or she clearly has a Chinese name we should like consultation before action.
cc:
Dr D C Wilson, Hong Kong
HKGD, FCO
MVD, FCO
Consular Dept, FCO
NTD, FCO
CONFIDENTIAL
H L Davies
Far Eastern Department