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CONFIDENTIAL
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TA319
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
London SW1A 2AH
Mick 02615..
10 September 1982
Dear John,
A01419
Prime Minister's Visit to Hong Kong:
238
See/284
h85] 288
Mr Thatcher's Programme
Caroline Stephens wrote to Pat Noble on 7 September to ask if arrangements could be made for Mr Thatcher to meet Miss Lydia Dunn and visit the Hong Kong buying office of Canadian Tyre. We have consulted the Hong Kong Government and they have confirmed that both engagements can be fitted into Mr Thatcher's programme on 27 September.
The Hong Kong Government have also suggested that on the morning of 28 September, where Mr Thatcher's programme at present shows a visit to a major development project where British equipment and plant is being used, he may wish to have a short meeting (about 30 minutes) with the Hong Kong and Yaumatei Ferry Company which have purchased, and are purchasing, a number of British vessels and other equipment (including the Vosper Marine Hovercraft). This would be followed by the trip to Castle Peak on the Hovercraft, accompanied by Lady Youde. I am afraid that the Hong Kong Government have not been able to provide any further suggestions to replace this trip.
The Hong Kong Government have also enquired whether Mr Thatcher would also like to be briefed on the redevelopment: of the Headquarters of the Hongkong and Shanghai Bank, which has significant British consultancy and steel interests. This could be arranged for 9.00 am on 28 September but it would, of course, mean a very long day.
Finally, the Hong Kong Government has suggested that the Senior British Trade Commissioner in Hong Kong should call on Mr Thatcher early in the evening on 26 September to run over his programme and outline major British interests in Hong Kong.
/I attach
CONFIDENTIAL