TNAG-0165-FCO40-201-Export-of-textiles-to-Norway-and-Sweden-1969 — Page 110

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Hong Kong/Sweden Textile Negotiations

Mr. Stewart circulated on 9th June a minute recording the main points in the telegrams since 20th February. This would have been useful if it had only been complete, but Mr. Stewart omitted important statements in the telegrams that do not fit in with his argument. The significant ones are the following;

25 March F.C.0. to Hong Kong - Telegram 201

"5. If however the Swedes in the event seek an

extension of the restraint arrangements to other non-cotton textile goods not currently under restraint we should have to give careful consideration both to the strength of their request and to your assessment of your own interests before we can agree. We should be grateful therefore if you would refer any such proposals to us before agreeing any commitments to the Swedes."

18 April F.C.0. to Hong Kong

Insert the following;

Telegram 252

ft If the Swedes then press for further consultations

on a more extended basis on a future occasion, we agree that you would have to consider this, but there are considerable tactical advantages

No

doubt if you were asked to consult again later about new restrictions you would in any case only agree after a great show of reluctance."

You will see that we left it to Hong Kong to make proposals to us on these items which she did at the end of April and which we have been considering since then.

LAST REF.

143

NEXT

REF.

(0. H. Kemmis)

CRE 1

11th June 1969

Mr. P.W. Carey (1.1)

C.C. Mr. Stewart

Ind. 1.

Mr. Goldsmith CRE 1 Mr. Carter F.C.O.. Mr. Whitehead - F.C.O. Mr. Toms CRE 2. Mr. Barry - CRE 3.

RECEIVED IN REGISTRY No.51

20 JUN 1969

HIKG/501/1