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It is important to do this when not under Chinese pressure and before the economy of the Colony starts to run down in the 1980s.
(4) Meanwhile we should show firmly that we intend to maintain our position there, giving no indication that we contemplate withdrawal. To this end we should keep under inter-departmental review what means we may have from time to time of countering any renewed Chinese pressure.
(5) We should consider separately whether to seek American
support and understanding for the policies we desire to adopt.
(6) The likely effects in the Colony of the approach of
1997 should be discreetly studied locally and policy in Hong Kong reviewed in the light of the results. (7) At regular intervals and at any time the Chinese regime or attitude towards the Colony change significantly, future policy towards the Colony should be reviewed, in consultation with the
Governor.
(8) In the event of an armed attack the Colony should
remain under civil control. The Dormant Commission (under which the Governor would in certain
circumstances hand over to the Commander, British Forces) should accordingly be revoked.
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