INFORMATION CONFIDENTIAL
be the most favoured, GEC do not consider that a final choice of
prospective partner can be made until there has been further
Given the uncertainties surrounding
contact with the Chinese.
the project, GEC consider flexibility must be the keynote to our
strategy. Dr Marshall agrees with this, even, though he favours
an Anglo/American approach.
9 If you and the other colleagues to whom I am copying this
letter agree with this general recommendation I suggest we would
seek to offer reassurance to CLP that the Government's position
remains one of holding open both options until such time as the
Chinese provide a clear indication. of their preference. The best
way of doing this might be for you to write to Lord Kadoorie on
the lines of the attached draft.
10 I am copying this minute to Peter Carrington, Geoffrey Howe,
John Biffen and Nigel Lawson, and in view of his interest, to
Michael Jopling.
Department of Industry
P.J
P J
February 1982
INFORMATION CONFIDENTIAL