TNAG-0301-FCO40-337-Effects-of-tariffs-on-imports-of-cotton-textiles-to-UK-from--1971 — Page 79

Defence, we are seeking £8.5 million a year from Hong

Kong over a period of five years as a contribution

towards the costs of maintaining British armed forces

in the Colony. The Governor considers that one of the

main reasons for the lack of progress so far in the

negotiations has been the resentment which has

accumulated over a period of years over actions by HMG

which have appeared to disregard Hong Kong's needs,

rights and vital interests.

If we decide that we cannot give temporary relief

from the new tariff, the Governor of Hong Kong is

certain to find it even more difficult to secure the

agreement of the unofficial members of his Legislative

Council to the proposed contribution towards the cost

of keeping HM armed forces there.

I therefore very much hope that you will feel

able to reconsider Michael Noble's request in the light

of the factors I have set out above.

CONFIDENTIAL

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