TNAG-0225-FCO40-261-Ministerial-meetings-on-internal-affairs-of-Hong-Kong-1970 — Page 53

we are reviewing the situation and we shall let you

have the outcome as soon as we can.

Above all, we are particularly anxious about the effect on Hong Kong of our joining the enlarged Communities, and we are examining all aspects of this

problem with the greatest of care. Denman will be able to bring us back your latest views, but we shall

certainly have to arrange further consultati ons.

Meanwhile, all I can usefully say at this stage is that

we shall continue to press the other donor countries

to agree to the inclusion of Hong Kong as a

beneficiary under the general preferences scheme.

Turning now to Hong Kong's internal affairs, you will, I am sure, agree that, given the limitations on constitutional development imposed by the attitude

of the CPG, it is particularly important that the social services should be further developed as rapidly

as possible. Hong Kong has, of course, made tremendous strides in this field in recent years.

I would be grateful, however, if you would consider

the following proposals :

(1) Education

I believe that an early announcement of the

introduction of compulsory primary education, free of charge, would do much to improve Hong Kong's "image"

both in this country and elsewhere. It is my under- standing that such an announcement would also meet with general approval in the Colony itself now that a new

public assistance scheme has been announced.

I am

assuming that this new scheme will make it unnecessary

for the children of poorer families to work to

supplement the family income.

in the wary of

I appreciate the practical

difficulties enforcing compulsory primary education

am not convinced that it would bingret

but I think it would be wrong to delay the introduction of this important measure for that reason alone.

/Housing

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