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arrest as illegal immigrants of these parties if they land there; and their immediate repatriation across the frontier bridge at Lo Wu. Clearly, however, a policy of this sort would involve a serious risk of escalation. Force would almost certainly have to be used; and even if no injuries resulted there would probably be allegations of serious maltreatment (as well no doubt as of insults to the Chinese people). Further incursions in larger numbers might be precipitated. The whole affair would undoubtedly be played up in the entire Hong Kong press and this would make it more difficult for the left-wing to climb down.
4.
Before taking drastic action of this sort, there- fore, I feel it would be essential to be certain that the C.P.G. are fully aware of the situation and our concern about it. You may wish to consider whether there would now be advantage in telling the M.F.A. in Peking what has been going on. My initial feeling was that it might be wiser not to do so, simply because the whole question of Hong Kong's treatment of illegal immigrants would then become a matter of debate between the two Governments and we might become involved in a direct confrontation with the C.P.G. on the issue. But at the present time when official communications between Kwangtung and the capital may not be working well, this risk may be outweighed by the advantage of ensuring that Peking are aware of what is happening.
5. I should be grateful for early views.
(Passed as requested)
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