TNAG-0011-FCO40-47-Kowloon-disturbances-1967 — Page 120

{ to grass indignitu

hand, there are strong reasons against volun-

teering any apology. British public opinion

would ot understand that we should rush in

with an apology for an accidental navigational

having subjected error, where the Chinese, jetted every

n

sydignity on our Representatives China and

abused

sh

authorities in Londony rejected our

and Hong Kong, showing no compunction at all

and insisted on justifying

when protests aim their atrocious

behaviour.Peking would almost certainly publi-

entr

cise our explanation as an attempt to cover

as/an

up a deliberate provocation or abject

latter

would not help to maintain

surrender. The would

public morale in Hong Kong.

IL howev

3. the Chinese, may, however, themselves

protest to you against these over-flights,

ye, you should give them a brief and

straightforward explanation, emphasizing that

the infringements were accidental and stating

that they are under further investigation.

4. If the Chinese publicise these over-flights

and there are any Press enquiries, News Depart-

ment will reply along similar lines.

30 Dd.033246 600m 9/66 G.W.B.Ltd. Gp.863

NOTHING TO BE WRITTEN IN THIS MARGIN

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