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20.
Since there can be no local consultation, we would propose to draw on the local knowledge of persons in Whitehall. We suggest that a small team should be established in the Commonwealth Office, containing an officer with local civilian experience of Hong Kong and representatives of the Foreign Office and the Chiefs of Staff. As soon as the Commonwealth Office have consulted the Governor of Hong Kong (who is at present on leave in Britain) this team should be assembled with instructions to produce an urgent plan. They should draw on advice from the Treasury and the Bank of England, and possibly also the Board of Trade, in studying the problem of the financial and other assets locked up in Hong Kong.
It may be necessary for one or two members of the team to visit Hong Kong
It must, covertly for personal discussions with the Governor and the GOC. however, be recognised that the absolute requirements of secrecy prevents us from making an effectively detailed plan and the Governor from making preparations on the spot. Any plan would have inherent weaknesses; nevertheless we cannot afford not to plan to save as much as we can if we
are driven out.
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