TNAG-0248-FCO40-284-Effect-of-entry-of-UK-into-EEC-on-exports-from-Hong-Kong-1970 — Page 154

CONFIDENTIAL

It is true that opinion polls give a picture of the

British public opposed to entry. This opposition may be

ascribed in part to previous abortive efforts to join the

Communities, in part to concern about rises in the cost of

living, particularly in food prices. We believe that once

negotiations are under way, these factors will cease to weigh

so heavily with the public. There is a large majority in

Britain in favour of opening negotiations, and also a large

majority who believe that we will eventually achieve full

membership.

CONFIDENTIAL