MANAGEMENT IN CONFIDENCE
(ii)
(iii)
3.
The name of the office. My own strong preference would be for "British Trade and Cultural Office" rather than "British Trade and Cultural Centre". To me the word "Centre" in both English and Chinese has too unofficial a ring. It implies no governmental involvement whatsoever. While this may be correct, strictly speaking, "Office" helpfully conveys the notion of our official involvement in trade and cultural relations with Taiwan. But I agree that Mr Morrice should be asked to advise on local implications.
The respective responsibilities of all those concerned. We must minimise any risk of friction between the trade and cultural sections of the new office by agreeing with the British Council on a form of words which sets out an agreed definition of the relationship between Mr Morrice and Mr Reid. This should be drafted in London and sent to Taipei for comment. An associated point is the relationship between the FCO, the British Council and the ATEC Policy Board in London. I assume that the closer relationship which we are seeking to establish between AUS commands in the FCO and Regional Directors in the British Council will apply to the operation of ATEC as to the operation of British Council offices elsewhere, despite the role to be played by the ATEC Policy Board. practice any potential divergence of policy should be avoided through the British Council and FCO representation on the Policy Board.) I note that the job description of the Director of ATEC correctly gives him a number of cultural responsibilities outside the promotion of ATEC business and allots 10% of his time to these activities. I hope that it will indeed be possible for the Director and his staff gradually to expand into other areas of cultural activity. I assume that these will be subject to the usual coordination between the FCO and the British Council, and will not directly involve the ATEC Policy Board.
(In
I should be grateful if work on these points could be set in hand. Please let me know if any need to be discussed. There will need to be an early telegram to Mr Morrice in Taipei. As soon as the game plan is established more clearly we shall need to consult
Ministers.
CO Hum
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