TNAG-0217-FCO40-253-Detainees-and-prisoners-convicted-for-offences-during-the-di-1970 — Page 56

CONFIDENTIAL

is still most grave concern in this country over the continucâ

detention in China of Mr. David Johnston and the four other British subjecto (Mrs. Yang, Mrs. Epstein, Mr. Chapiro, and Mr. Crook). It is a firm hope of the British Government that the two further releases in Hong Kong will be followed by the early relcase of British subjects detained in China. We attach particular importance to the case of Mr. Johnston, who, as wo have said repcatedly, is sick. He suffors from a kidney ailment and requires treatment. His release would be most

welcome news for us

處

5. We welcome the assurances which the Chinese Government

havo givon that they share our desire to improve relations

We have noted the release of Mr. Crouch. Both wo and the

The Typhor

It

Hong Kong Government have taken a series of important,

practical gestures to secure better relations.

releases in Hong Kong are a major step in this direction.

is now up to the Chinese Covernment to match our efforts by the

carly release of British subjects dotained in China.

Far Eastern Department

3 November, 1970.

CONFITEEDIAD,

2

/Defensive Speaking Notes