TNAG-0014-FCO40-50-Kowloon-disturbances-1967 — Page 155

SECRET

Hong Kong telegram No. 1372 to Commonwealth Office (D.T.D.)

3

ago) advocating a political struggle rather than one by force. He has again emphasised that the intervention of the PLA should not be taken for granted by Communists in Hong Kong. There are a number of indications that the local Communists intend to continue with their policy of confrontation with the Hong Kong Government but emphasis continues to be placed on the long term nature of the struggle ahead.

7. Information available in Hong Kong indicates that the PLA in Canton has taken firm action during the last few days to stop the fighting between the many factions in the city, apparently in an attempt to restore order prior to the Autumn Trade Fair due to be held next month. Although rail trafic between Canton and Hong Kong is still erratic with very little produce entering the colony by this channel, the PLA appears still to be in firm control of the border area.

8. The colony has passed a comparatively quiet week. Statements made by Communist officials during meetings held to discuss National Day celebrations indicate that they wish to lower tension before the beginning of the October festivities. The overt display of compliance by the Chung Wah Middle School with the Director of Education's conditions and the recent moderation in the tone of the Communist Press are further pointers that the local Communist hierarchy is, for the moment, seeking to avoid a major conflict with Government. However, it remains to be seen whether or not they have sufficient influence to restrain their more militant supporters. If the Communist leadership now keep overtly wit hin the bounds of the law while planning a longer term campaign to digrupt the Colony they will face government with a new and very difficult problem. But it is impossible yet to be sure that the present. apparent change in tactics is intended to last beyond the celebrations of October 1st.

Foreign Office please pass Immediate POLAD Singapore as my telegram No. 343 and Routine Washington 294 and Canberra 92.

Sir D. Trench

Sent 10392 11 September

Recd. 1045Z 11 September

[Repeated as requested]

[Sent to J,I.C. (Cabinet Office)]

FILES

C.O. H.K. & W.I.D. "C" Sir A. Galsowrthy

VVVVV

Mr. Hall

I. & G. Dept.

F.E. & P.D.

J.I.P.G.D.

J.I.R.D.

F.O.

SECRET

F.E.D.

Mr. de la Mare O. P.A. O.L.A.