add constructively to the pressure on the Chinese authorities, the idea of subsequently holding a publicity meeting in Hong Kong is likely to have only negative effects. It would almost certainly be seized upon by the Chinese as a classic example of Hong Kong being used as a "base for subversion" against China, and they would
therefore reject any of the findings of your visit to
China. This would not help those in China of interest to
the Delegation.
Hong Kong has long had a policy of protecting
freedom of speech, but equally a strong interest in not
allowing the territory to be used as a platform for
political activities directed against China by outsiders.
It is for the Hong Kong Government to weigh up where the
balance lies in each case between these factors. I understand that normal immigration criterial would be adopted in the case of the proposed visit by the
delegation, just as in other cases.
I know the strength of your commitment to human rights in China. But using Hong Kong as a place from
which to put political pressure on the Chinese Government
creates problems for the people of Hong Kong without
helping those concerned in China. I hope that your
delegation will therefore reconsider their plans to go to Hong Kong for this purpose.
Alaistair Goodlad