TOP SECRET
· 3 -
exploited by local Communists with the aid of hooligan
elements, some of whom were paid. A campaign was then mounted
as a direct and deliberate challenge to the authority of the
Hong Kong Government.
5
8.
Disorders ceased on the 22nd May, the Communist leadership
in Hong Kong having suffered an initial defeat. Since then
it has eschewed violent methods and has:-
D.
(a) organised a series of token stoppages of
work, notably in public utilities and
government departments;
(b) continued its anti-Government subversive
propaganda campaign through the Press,
posters and public address systems mounted
on Communist-owned buildings.
By immediate disciplinary action against its own staff,
the Hong Kong Government has sought to lead other employers
into taking firm action against those stopping work. Action
has been taken under emergency powers against the use of public
address systems and the display of posters; there has been no
effective Communist counter-action to these measures. As yet
the Governor has taken no action against the Press or to deport,
de tain or bar the entry of Communist leaders, under powers
which it has been agreed he might use if necessary. Use of
these powers might be considered in Peking as a direct challenge
and could make it more difficult for Peking to withdraw from
a policy of confrontation.
yo. There are indications that the leadership which was
in some disarray: after the failure of its violent methods in
the face of strong public disapproval are now marking time
pending a signal or instructions fran Peking.
TOP SECRET
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.