CONFIDENTIAL
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They spoke warmly of the new Trade Commissioner in Hong Kong, and of Philip Morrice and our up-graded representation in Taiwan. But they said that the quality elsewhere had been variable. They also expressed concern at press reports that posts might be closed or Commercial Officers withdrawn as a result of public expenditure constraints. They were not arguing for increased quantity (except perhaps a Consulate in Canton); but felt that any reduction would damage export promotion.
I am copying this letter to John Sawers and Sir John Coles.
yours
родите
RODERIC LYNE
* I showed emphasise that
complaints
specific
the
were made; and I think
critical comments were directed more
at
past patchiness than at the present pattern.
P Ricketts Esq
Hong Kong Department
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
CONFIDENTIAL