TNAG-0114-FCO40-150-Detainees-and-prisoners-following-19671968-disturbances-1969 — Page 49

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(0) We should seek opportunities to bring into informal

conversation with the Chinese phrases which make it

(a)

clear that we have no further concessions to offer them

in the matter of Hong Kong.

We should emphasise on all occasions to the Chinese

that differences of view between H.M.G. in London and

Hong Kong are illusory and therefore not open to

exploitation.

First,

9. From Peking Mr. Denson has made three comments.

he doubts whether the Chinese will in fact make a specific

demand for the premature release of further confrontation

prisoners in exchange for the remaining British subjects in

detention. Indeed he believes it to be feasible that after

the release of Mr. Grey the Chinese may yet release a few

other British subjects without a quid pro quo.

Meanwhile

we should not prejudice their chances by telling the

communists that we are "calling a halt" or otherwise changing

our line in Hong Kong.

Second, Mr. Denson points out that to

emphasise to the Chinese that there are no differences between

H.M.G. in London and Hong Kong can only confirm their suspicions

that such differences exist. Third, Mr. Denson agrees that

there should be some moderation in our references to

"improving Sino-British relations". While the release of

Mr. Grey is pending we should in fact say as little as

possible to the Chinese on Hong Kong or on any other aspect

of our relations.

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