H.K.D.
4
Bulis
Foreign and Co.
London SWI ZAH
* Office
MKK040/23
RECEIVED IN REGISTRY
2-1283
20 December 1983
Dear John,
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Sir P Cradock's Despatch of 12 December on the Hong Kong
Negotiations
The Foreign Secretary has read with interest the enclosed despatch by Sir P Cradock, who leaves Peking in a few days. He believes that the Prime Minister and other members of OD(K) might also find it interesting, particularly at the present time when we are looking afresh at our strategy in the talks and the way ahead. As well as summarising the past and present positions it takes a hard-headed look at the future and the realities facing us. It will be invaluable for the review which we are now conducting.
We do not propose that this despatch be distributed beyond the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, the Cabinet Office and the members of OD(K). It has of course been copied to the Governor in Hong Kong who may send us comments of his own. Sir Geoffrey has sent a telegram to the Ambassador thanking him for it and for his outstanding work as leader of our negotiating team during the past
15 months.
I am copying this letter and enclosure to Private Secretaries to members of OD(K) and to Richard Hatfield (Cabinet Office).
A J Coles Esq
10 Downing Street
You ever,
Rete Ricketts
(P F Ricketts) Private Secretary
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