CO537-1657 — Page 11

Y900 Gя0038 GMA THAROQ

TRASO

en AM

ЯМ

adopt a completely non-committal attitude towards anyCIJOS questions from the Press about the future of Hong Kong and the New Territories, and to say that he is not in a position to make any statement on that matter. I appreciate that it might be embarrassing for you to take an exactly similar line if, for example) questions were asked in the Legislative Councily and that you might wish in that event at least do reiterate most recent pronouncements made by Ministers here. Also, your situatin differs from that of His Majesty's Ambassador in that a Press campaign for the return of Hong Kọng to China might havelano se tu. KIM more immediate und, serious consequences. in Hong Kong pe than in China, necessitating quick and effectivẻ counter measures in the Colony. I should not wish i any way to fetter your judgment in handling such a situation in an emergency. On the other hand, as you know the possible repercussions outside Hong Kong, even of action intended only to pacify local opinion may sometimes be considerable. For that reason it is generally advantageous to consider the question of anis approach through diplomatic channels before any other actin. is taken and I know that, unless time and other circumstances do not permit, you will consult the Embassy and my self in advance about any proposals, particularly when they involve publicity, for countering future Chinese propaganda or other activities affecting the status of Hong Kong or the New Territories.

Ends.

NUSOJOWA

BAL LIMO 2016 1002 01E100E5C „W [{o¢¢k}

.*

SECER.

MCHDA MIHTAUR

от