TNAG-0186-FCO40-222-Special-branch-reports-on-Communist-activities-1969 — Page 155

0003230 G.F. 323

CONFIDENTIAL

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The comfort meetings were dominated by a

spirit of class friendship. Hawkers attending the meetings offered sincere condolences to HO's relatives. Despite their poor living the hawkers, in displaying the "three-mutual spirits", raised a total of $1,500 which was given to HO's wife as 'condolence money'. $500 was raised during the meeting. Consolation letters, which were written by those who were unable to attend, were read out. The writers all assured HO's wife and her family that they shared her sufferings, and encouraged her to turn her indignation into strength so as to get the Hong Kong British authorities to settle the account. They pledged also that they will develop the "three-mutual spirits" by helping to solve her difficulties.

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On behalf of all hawkers, the Chairmen at the meetings offered sincere condolences, condemned persecution by the Hong Kong British authorities and expressed opposition to the "Robbers' Campaign". The Chairman indicated that this was national enmity and class vengeance. In appealing to all those present to intensify their unity, they said, "We must neither be cowed by the threats of the Hong Kong British authorities nor give credit to their lies. We must be strong enough to endure the harshness of the Hong Kong British authorities and must, at the same time, through their tricks. Let us struggle for our legitimate rights of operating our business.

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At the meetings, HO's wife indignantly accused the Hong Kong British authorities of being responsible for her husband's death. She said, "Were it not for the Cleanliness Campaign of the Hong Kong British authorities, which drove all our family to desperation, Ah CHIU would not have taken his life". She then expressed her heartfelt thanks to all for their kind concern and assistance. She indicated also that she would join all those present in carrying out the struggle for their legitimate rights to operate their business at their original pitches.

Hawkers of various districts who had fallen victims to persecution disclosed the atrocious crimes of the Hong Kong British authorities and recounted their brave struggles.

CONFIDENTIAL