Cypher/Cat A
FLASH PEKING · TO
Melno 474
SECRET
SECRET
FOREIGN OFFICE
12 May 1967
16A
CHWA 1/1
Addressed to Foreign Office telegram No. 474 of 12 May, Repeated for information to Hong Kong and Singapore.
2/Hong Kong telegram No. 589 to Commonwealth Office.
Disturbances in Hong Kong.
I see disadvantages in making an approach to the Chinese at this stage. All the indications are that they have been taken by surprise and the fact that the mainland Press has still not reported the incidents suggests that they have still not decided here to play the situation.
2. An approach by us now would be likely to be regarded as an indication of nervousness and weakness and would be an encouragement. to the Chinese to believe that they could score another cheap. victory on the Macao pattern. Moreover, the cooler heads within the Chinese leadership will already be aware of the considerations set out in paragraph 5 of telegram under reference.
3.
Difficult though it may be, I would therefore recommend that we ride out the storm for the time being.
4. If, nevertheless, a decision is taken to make an approach to the Chinese, I would urge that this is likely to be done more effectively in London than here, where it could well take several days before they granted me an interview.
Foreign Office pass Flash to Hong Kong 330.
Mr. Hopson
Sent 1200 12 May
Recd 13112 12 May
[Repeated as requested]
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SENT TO HONG KONG AS COMMONWEALTH OFFICE (D.T.D.)
TELEGRAM NO.
188.474 900
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