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CONFIDENTIAL
DRAFT COMMENT FOR POSSIBLE USE BY LORD SHEPHERD WITH THE PRESS
IN HONG KONG
ANGLO-CHINESE RELATIONS
FO
This Our relations with China are going through a difficult period. situation is not of our making. Following the attack on the British Kission in Peking in August and the severe restrictions placed thereafter on the Charge d'Affaires and his staff, the Mission has been unable to function effectively. Furthermore, certain members of the staff whom we wish to withdraw, with the exception of two wives requiring medical attention, are not being allowed to leave China.
We wish to see relations put back on a more normal footing; the dignity and security of our representatives assured; and an atmosphere created in which contacts with China in all fields, including trade, can be maintained and expanded. It was with this in mind that the Foreign Secretary sent a message to the Chinese Foreign Minister on 30th August suggesting ways in
We still await a reply. which the present difficulties might be resolved.
This
In the meantime, I am glad to see that the situation in Hong Kong has improved, largely owing to the firm and sensible measures taken by the authorities, backed by the overwhelming majority of the people of Hong Kong. I look forward to a restoration of good working relations between China and Hong Kong based on an understanding of their benefit to each other. should be the basis of relations as a whole between Britain and China.
But any improvement must depend This is what we shall continue to work for.
are not prepared to seck it by on China's willingness to do her part. We concessions which are all on our side. In particular we cannot consider any abdication of our authority and responsibilities in Hong Kong.
October, 1967
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