TNAG-0096-FCO40-132-Hong-Kong-Trade-Unions-1968 — Page 45

FCO40 Hong Kong Department Records 聯邦事務部香港部檔案 All

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largest though there are two organisations, one affiliated to the ICFTU and one not. The ICFTU affiliated body, with whom we have had more extensive relations, should be chosen. Four West Indian organisations might be invited. In this case the choice can be put in the hands of the Caribbean Congress of Labour, though it should be under- stood that the Jamaican organisations should come to some agreement between themselves.

7.

Bermuda is included since we have had recent contacts with the Bermuda Industrial Union and this is an island which represents those ancient Crown colonies which are substantially independent but unlikely to seek formal independence. Malta is included by virtue of long standing contacts with the GWU. Cyprus gives rise to a question since the main non-communist organisation is Greek, but there is a small Turkish group. However, it is suggested elsewhere that Turkey (TURK-IS) should be invited whereas it is not suggested that the Greek GSEE should be invited.

8.

Fiji is suggested as an example of a colonial territory soon likely to become independent where trade unionism is a growing and significant force and where we have considerable contacts with the central organisa- tion and some of the unions. Hong Kong is included because it is unique a major colonial industrial centre.

9.

The Falkland Islands is included as an example of a minor British dependency in the communal life of which trade unionism plays a significant role.

Other National Centres

10.

Two communist countries are included with which we have had recent contacts. They are USSR and Yugoslavia. Three others are suggested as automatic choices, the AFL-CIO (two fraternal delegates), Israel and Mexico. Japan is suggested as a country of major industrial importance with an important trade union movement, though the invitation would have to go to only one section, DOMEI, unless it is thought that SOYHO, with whom the TUC have had some contact, can be invited. Tunisia, if invited, would be the sole Arab representative unless the other significant Arab ICFTU affiliate, the Lebanon, is invited. Finally there is a group of countries which have some claim to be represented, namely Iceland which has sent a representative to Congress; Finland, which is associated with EFTA, though there are two organisations and a choice might be difficult; and Turkey which is associated with the EEC and where recent trade union development has been fairly substantial. We have had some contacts with the Turkish movement, including sending a lecturer to an OECD-sponsored course. We are also in contact with them within OECD.

11.

The ILO should be invited as an organisation (or perhaps Mr. Morse could be invited personally) and the ICFTU should be invited.

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