TNAG-0278-FCO40-314-Visit-of-Secretary-of-State-for-Foreign-and-Commonwealth-Aff-1970 — Page 100

8.

QUESTION:

Would an exchange of the remaining confrontation

prisoners in Hong Kong facilitate the release of the

remaining British subjects detained by the Chinese?

ANSWER:

The

The Chinese have consistently taken the line that

in their view the British nationals detainedin China have

offended against Chinese laws and regulations and that

their cases are being dealt with on their merits.

prisoners in Hong Kong were convicted in open court in

accordance with the due process of law. All are eligible

for remission and are allowed regular visits by relatives

and friends. I believe the best way to secure the release

of the remaining seven British subjects detained in China

is to work for an overall improvement in Sino/British

relations.

(Defensive:

if specifically asked whether detained

British subjects are hostages for confrontation prisoners)

The Chinese have never made any suggestion that British

subjects detained in China are being held as hostages for

persons serving sentences in Hong Kong.

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