RET
4
against communists in the Colony.
The extent of this holding back is
well illustrated by the list contained at Annexure 'D'.
In some instances this restraint was exercised for tactical reasons, for example to ensure the fullest public support before taking steps to stop a certain line of communist activity; in others it was in the hope that the communists would respond with some reduction in the level of their opposition to Government. In many cases, of course, it was because of political factors outside the Colony. However, in general these concessions have met with little or no response by the communists and Government has been left invariably with the alternative of allowing increasing pressure against its authority or taking positive action. In this direction it is noteworthy that, in broad terms, the communists have usually retreated in the face of firm moves against them.
CONCLUSIONS
7.
The Hong Kong Government has made many concessions during the confrontation with the Chinese communists but has received little in return. Indeed experience suggests that such conciliatory gestures, whether they are clear cut actions or restraints, are not normally reciprocated voluntarily by the communists. Instead there is evidence that, on occasions, any such moves are misinterpreted, namely as a sign of weakness, thus encouraging the opposition to increase their pressure on Government. This is not to say, of course, that any form of negotiation
with the Chinese authorities should be ruled out. However it is considered that H.M.G. or H.K.G. are only likely to obtain a reasonable settlement where it is clear to the communists that our Governments will not be intimidated or agree to concessions without some clear guarantee they will result in reciprocation by the other side.
SECRET
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