I recognise that it is the policy of H MG to allow maximum autonomy to Hong Kong. I support this policy, and indeed it was the policy when I was the Minister of State
I responsible for Hong Kong during the last Parliament. remember a number of occasions when I declined to intervene in decisions made in Hong Kong in vi ew of that policy.
I assume also that it is open to a future Legislative Council to modify the Ordinance if it thinks it right to do this.
I am writing in my personal capacity and not as Chairman of the British-Hong Kong Parlia mentary Group, but I would like to suggest that you may wish to convey to the new Governor that there are some Members of the House who are surprised and concerned at the passage of this Ordinance in Hong Kong with its tradition of a free press, television and radio, and puzzled ab out why it should be necessary.
Timothy Renton, Esq. M.P., Foreign & Commonwealth Office.
yours ever,
Ali