0003160 G.F. 316
5.
SECRET
- 3 -
ru.
P
che
(c)
There is a section of informed public opinion which
expresses the view that action must be taken against
the left wing press in order to demonstrate the Governments
continuing and firm resolve to maintain law and order.
Probable effects on Communist Activity Resulting from the Closure of Left Wing Newspapers.
(a)
(b)
Reduction in Circulation
The closure of even one of the communist newspapers is
likely to result in an overall drop in circulation for
the left wing press as a whole. It is not considered
likely that more than 50% of the readers of any particular
paper would buy an alternative communist newspaper.
Increase in use of other Medias
There is likely to be a sharp increase in the use of
mosquito sheets, posters and radio broadcasts from
Villa Verde and Canton.
(c)
Action Against non-communist Publicity and Propaganda Agencies
(a)
This action could take the form of physical violence
against people, equipment and buildings.
External Pressure
The sharp reaction by China to the closure of the three
newspapers in August may be considered indicative of the
importance Peking attaches to the press in Hong Kong. It
has been said that the razing of Embassy in Peking was
not official reaction but similar reactions are possible,
e.g. taking of hostages. The situation is particularly
delicate at the present time with border negotiations in
progress and the Foreign Office trying to re-establish
normal relations with China. The full range of means
of exerting pressure on Hong Kong is, as always, available
to China, and could include in this instance the jamming
of local radio stations.
SECRET
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.