TNAG-0045-FCO40-81-Britain-s-entry-into-EEC-effect-on-trade-with-Hong-Kong-1967 — Page 185

CONFIDENTIAL

7. In these circumstances, and provided that a restrictive common

ercial policy is not adopted before British accession, there is a

case for arguing that the presence of Britain in the Community as a

counterweight to these tendencies would in the long run be of benefit

to the Colony, even if Britain were required to apply the common

external tariff.

8.

The above are no more than conjectures. They do not represent

the fully considered opinion of H.M.G. on the question, which has not

yet been worked out. It must be emphasised that no decision has

yet been taken to open negotiations and the Hong Kong Government would

be consulted before this eventuality materialised. But the above

i

might be used in confidential discussions with the Hong Kong

Government, although it would not be wise to air the arguments with

non-officials. In non-official talks the material in paragraphs 1-3

above only should be used.

Western Economic Department,

Commonwealth Office.

25 November, 1966.

CONFIDENTIAL