TNAG-0313-FCO40-349-Reports-of-typhoons-and-storms-from-Hong-Kong-Typhoon-Rose---1976 — Page 31

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appeal for contributions to the Relief Fund on this

occasion. Since it would be most difficult for us

to consider anything more than a token contribution

of something up to £10,000 we came to the tentative

conclusion that in all the circumstances it would be

best if there were to be no contribution from HMG

on this occasion. We then saw the report of the

remission by the Chinese Red Cross Society of the

sum of 3 million yuan "to help the compatriots in

Hong Kong overcome the difficulties caused by the

typhoon". It would clearly be out of the question

for HMG to attempt to match this contribution which

has obviously been offered for political reasons;

and unless you think that a token contribution from

HMG would be appreciated and would not be embarrassing

having regard to the size of the CPG offer and the

defence contribution negotiations we/propose to do

nothing. If, of course,there is any practical way

in which HMG can demonstrate their sympathy we shall

be only too glad to consider any suggestions you may

wish to make; in any event we are sure that the

Services will have done everything within their power

If,

to assist you.

wordd

in The content of

Apart from this, it would be most helpful if you

could let us have your views on the Chinese action

in offering the 3 million yuan. The preliminary

view here is that this is in line with the general

policy of the CPG to present a respectable image to

the world and at the same time to further what they

regard as their national interests. Judging from

your reports of the damage caused by the typhoon.

/nothing

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