CONFIDENTIAL
FROM: A R Paul
HKB3 026/11
Hong Kong Department
RE
DATE:
6 March 1990
-9 MAR 1990
DESK INDEX
PS/Mr Maude
Private Secretary
HONG KONG: JOINT PRESS CONFERENCE
FILE
29
GOU VISITS HUB 026lu
cc: PS/Lord Brabazon
Mr Gillmore
Mr McLaren
Mr Burns, News Department
Mr Lidington
A 1. The Governor has now commented on the suggestion that Mr Maude
and he might give a joint press conference on 9 March. From his perspective there is no particular benefit to be gained, and could be a substantial potential downside.
B
C
2.
In the light of the Governor's views I recommend that we do not pursue this idea on this occasion. It would of course be a different matter if something really newsworthy were to happen during the Governor's visit, eg an agreement with Vietnamese on involuntary repatriation. We would then need to think how best to
handle this. News Department agree.
3. Mr Wall asked for advice on next steps following last week's publicity on international support. The Secretary of State has suggested that we pause and start again later.
I agree. There may
be more to say in a few weeks or so after one or two other countries decide to introduce schemes of their own. The latest feedback from posts (attached) following last week's publicity also suggests that
a pause would be advisable.
ARPa
TELADQ
CONFIDENTIAL
A R Paul