TNAG-0240-FCO40-276-Entitlement-of-Hong-Kong-to-generalised-tariffs-preferences--1970 — Page 16

Mr.Statham

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Reference...

Hong Kong

CODEL Brussels telegram number 312 reports the conclusions of the Community's working group on Hong Kong.

1

2. I was told in confidence over the week-end that the Netherlands Government were likely to propose in January that the Community should bring into operation their UNCTAD preference offer in respect of Hong Kong and the other countries concerned on 1 July 1971. The Community's scheme would cover Formosa and South Korea. 19

<0.

3. I was asked whether this timetable would, present. | difficulties for us; and whether the inclusion of

Formosa (which I believe is not a member of the Seventy-Seven) would make difficulties for us.

I got the impression that if we strongly objected to Formosa being treated better than Hong Kong, the Dutch/might be prepared to consider advocating some change in the treatment of Formosa (but obviously not any change in the treatment of Hong Kong.)

4. If there is anything I can usefully say to the Dutch officials who told me this, I can pass it back to them after the Christmas break.

Informa

(J.A.Robinson)

22 December 1970.

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Copied to:

Mr.Britten, Trade Policy Dept.

?

tyr Perceval

Minh it is purus to advise whats bied be said to the butch. We could bathe the matter wider o expere our position or desideraln on Hong Kong generally to the Dutch?

Please consider

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