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19.1.70.
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9/2/20
Hong Kong Department
2
16 January, 1970
Communist Confrontation
We have been studying with some interest the two Special Branch papers, both with the reference number GEN/14/368/50, and dated 2nd and 3rd October, 1969, respectively. The first is entitled "Assessment of Recent Communist Activities and Future Capabilities", the second "Communist Policy and Possible Future Tactics"; both were forwarded under cover of Harrison's letter TSX 9/68 of 17th October. There are one or two points arising out of these papers on which we would welcome further information.
In paragraph 29 of the earlier paper there is a reference to the poor academic standards achieved by graduates from communist schools. Are we right in thinking that the low standard of academic achievement at these schools (as compared with that attained in non-communist schools) is generally well known and is being well-exploited by G.I.S. whenever opportunity offers? And if so does it have any effect in weaning away children from such schools? Our own impression is that although the low standard of achievement might persuade non-communist parents against sending their children to such schools (provided that other schools are available in their areas) it probably has little effect on the captive clientele represented by the children of parents Tho are either communist sympathisers or who are subject to communist influence or pressure.
In paragraph 5 of the later paper there is a reference to the secondment to communist organisations in Hong Kong of China-based cadres. So far as we can trace, this is the first reference that we have seen to this development. Can you say whether it is a significant one and whether the numbers involved are substantial?
In paragraph 34 of the same paper there is a mention of the communists doing all they can to bring about a rift between the Hong Kong Government and the Americans. Again, that is the first reference that we have seen to such a ploy. We should be interested to know the form that the communist effort has taken in this context. Can you let us have any details?
Finally, paragraphs 53-55 of the second paper show that problems connected with hawkers are one of the most fertile fields for the Communists. We have seen a quite detailed earlier Special Branch report (reference C/14/569, dated 2nd July) on communist influence amongst hawkers. But all this has served to bring home to us that
A. F. Maddocks, Esq., Political Adviser,
Colonial Secretariat, HONG KONG.
/ we
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