CO537-1657 — Page 22

towards any 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 Council, and

that you might wish in that event at least to reiterate

most recent pronouncements made by Ministers here.

Also, your situation differs from that of H.M. Ambassador

in that a Press campaign for the return of Hong Kong

to China might have more immediate and serious conse-

quences in Hong Kong than in China, necessitating

quick and effective counter measures in the Colony.

I should not wish in 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 an approach through diplomatic

channels before any other action is taken and I know

that, unless time and other circumstances do not permit,

you will consult the Embassy and myself 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.