RESTRICTED
17. Mr Cushing felt there were less avenues than in many other countries for influencing government. Lobbying per se was difficult. Mr Hale observed that government thinks in terms of 40/50 years. Published policy covered 10/15 years ahead. The Gulf War had been a frightening experience for government with the Malay population being pro Saddam Hussein. Religious allegiance versus being "Singaporean" had surfaced. Mr Walvis thought the experience had been a timely "cold shower". Singaporeans were not entirely loved in the region, against this background he thought it was better for British companies to be represented in Malaysia or Thailand, for example by expatriates.
18. Mr. Cushing thought that neighbouring Muslim governments policy of pursuing Bumiputra policies had not to date been of benefit to companies. Pursuing this policy could heighten racial tension.
demands the latest
19. Mr Ashman said that Singapore technology at the most competitive price. This has the effect of driving down prices regionally as Singapore is seen as the bench mark in this respect. Influencing government is best done at MD level through social contact, ideally on a one to one basis. Lobbying on a government by government basis was more difficult, but the French seemed to have some success. The High Commissioner observed that this was when French government companies were involved.
20. Mr Hale noted that government officials are ready to talk on a personal basis. They do listen but within a long time frame. Large Singaporean companies have top level access to government. Small and medium enterprises complain they have no access. Singapore is a a Chinese island, surrounded by a Muslim Sea which is itself surrounded by Chinese Vietnam, Cambodia and Hong Kong. Commenting on future markets he thought it best long term to concentrate on China and Taiwan.
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21. Mr Harvey said BP concentrate on having strong local companies, eg in Singapore, in Malaysia and in Thailand. This was a conscious decision not to have a regional policy.
Consequently if there is a decision by the Thais to build a new refinery this will receive the support of BP in Thailand. Mr Walvis thought it was important that contacts were made at the right level when lobbying. There: was a certain prickliness if they were not.
8 MAY 1991
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DR SHAW
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