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would be strongly resisted by the MOD, and would
cost money.
23.
In conclusion, there are serious doubts about the
suitability of HMS Tamar as
a future Consulate-General.
Previous correspondence between the FCO, Hong Kong and Peking at senior official level has revealed unanimous
misgivings about the option. Ministers may feel,
however, that in view of the potential advantages we
should further sound out the Hong Kong Government and the
Chinese on their attitude towards our using the PWB as a
future Consulate-General before reaching a firm
conclusion.
24.
Residential
We should not lose sight of our residential
accommodation needs post-1997 (including a Residence for
the Consul-General).
There is no owned property in the
present diplomatic estate in Hong Kong.
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