TNAG-0040-FCO40-76-Border-incidents-with-China-1968 — Page 7

Territory and their intention not to do so was confirmed

by reliable intelligence sources.

However, at times

there was a danger that they might fire across the

border or otherwise react to our handling of incidents.

Nevertheless, the overall strength of C.C.A. formations

in Kwangtung was not increased at any stage.

PRESENT SITUATION

14.

The degree of tension in the border area

throughout confrontation fluctuated from time to time

but did not decrease significantly until the conclusion

of discussions regarding border problems between

representatives of the Hong Kong Government and C.P.G.

Border Officials. Following a suggestion from the

authorities in Peking, these talks, which had opened on

the 1st November, culminated on the 26th November, 1967.

Agreements were reached in respect of the exchange of

prisoners, the re-opening of Man Kam To Bridge, certain

alterations to the border fence, and compensation for

Chinese Territory persons affected by the Bridge closure.

The subsequent return to more normal conditions in the

frontier zone coincided with a change in communist

tactics in the urban area where violent activity ceased,

as from mid December, 1967, following a directive from

China.

15.

In short there have been no serious incidents

in the border since the talks were completed and anti-

British propaganda is no longer broadcast at Lo Wu, Man

Kam To and Sha Tau Kok. However, minor incidents, such

as stone throwing perpetrated by young boys, painting

slogans on the railway engine at Lo Wu, and occasionally

SECRET