TNAG-0286-FCO40-322-Visits-of-HRH-Princess-Alexandra-to-Hong-Kong-1970 — Page 43

CONFIDENTIAL

every opportunity to demonstrate our interest in, and concern with, the problems of the Colony. The Governor is most anxious that Princess Alexandra should visit Hong Kong and he has reported that members of his Executive Council reacted favourably to the idea that the Colony might have to meet part or all of the costs of the visit. I consider, however, that, in present drcumstances, it would have a bad psychological effect if we were to ask the Colony to contribute towards the cost of a Royal Visit there. Such a

request might well detract from the value of the visit.

6. Before the extension of his appointment was agreed, the Governor suggested that the visit might take place in September, i.e. shortly before he laid down his commission. Subject to the Governor's views, it could now be put back to October (we expect that the Governor will wish to take some leave immediately after the visit).

7. I recommend that the Committee should reconsider the possibility of Princess Alexandra visiting Hong Kong in the autumn this year and that the whole cost of the visit should be borne by HMG.

(E. 0. Laird)

Hong Kong Department

11 June, 1970

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