SECRET
L.
Cor:
213
YPHER/CAT A
IMMEDIATE HONG KONG TO COMMONWEALTH OFFICE (D.T.D.)
Telno 1753
SECRET
23 November 1967
209) My telegram No. 1740; H.K. Border.
Discussion was resumed this afternoon at Shumchun. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly and there was a total absence of polemics.
2.
However, there was very little progress towards agreement. On compensation we stood firm and the Chinese side eventually produced a formula which they seemed to regard as a genuine attempt to meet our difficulties. It was, however not acceptable and discussion switched to other questions without our side tabling our fall-back wording. On the time limit for the removal of the immigration rence we again stood firm and after very lengthy argument, the Chinese side twice extended the time limit, to 65 and then 70 days. No conclusion was reached. There were also lengthy and inconclusive discussions about the right to study and propagate the thoughts of Mao. Here again the Chinese side produced a new formula which they obviously hoped to be acceptable. They also moved by agreeing to simultaneity of the release of personnel, but the detainees on our side' should cross at Lowu and the two constables at Man Kan To.
3. Our assessment is that the Chinese had thought it possible that we should have moved our stand sufficiently for an agreement to have been reached today and were surprised and disappointed at the lack of progress. They have suggested a further meeting
tomorrow.
Sir D. Trench
DEPARTMENTAL DISTRIBUTION
C.O.
F.0.
H.K.D.
I & G.D.
News Dept.
Derence Dept.
F.E.D.
D.D. & P.U.S.D.
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