CONFIDENTIAL
(b) Consular Representation
4.
The idea of establishing a British Representative Office in Hong Kong before 1997 was raised several years ago by the "Conservatives Abroad" in Hong kong. At that time
Lord Glenarthur replied explaining the presentational, practical and political difficulties inherent in the idea.
5.
We believe that British expatriates in Hong Kong are
well catered for and that the concerns of "Conservatives
Abroad" are not well founded. Hong Kong Immigration Department provided a memorandum at that time which
confirmed this. It made clear that the services they
provide to British expatriates in Hong Kong are just as extensive as those given in any overseas consular posts. "Conservatives Abroad" have not raised the issue again, and are presumably content. It is possible, however, they might raise the subject during the present visit.
BUSAIK/3
CONFIDENTIAL