TNAG-0328-FCO40-364-Activities-of-New-Left-groups-amongst-students-and-youth-of--1973 — Page 70

3

G.F. 323

0003230

2

CONFIDENTIAL

10

from any action which might bring them into direct physical conflict with the Hong Kong authorities. The Chinese Government is unlikely to become overtly involved until it considers that there is either unacceptable oppression of local Chinese or serious doubt about Britain's continuing ability to govern the Colony.

39.

Public attitudes towards the New Left have so far been ambivalent. It has attracted a lot of interest- inevitably so in a situation where the press is avid for sensation and the lack of a normal political opposition focusses attention on the activities of any militants who organize protest. It has sometimes also attracted sympathy for taking up particular causes. But this has usually been mixed with apprehension about possible disorder. The apprehension can quickly become paramount, particularly when suitable publicity can show that an issue is being unnecessarily prolonged or exacerbated despite fair, prompt and firm action to investigate grievances.

40.

But

The ambivalence is likely to remain for the time being. Most people are too preoccupied with making a living to be really interested in questioning what goes on around them. attitudes may change if they gain the impression that improvements in conditions affecting them can best be achieved by agitation; and most agitation would be directed against Government, for its responsibilities and those of quasi-official bodies are generally confused. Moreover particular groups or individuals will from time to time continue to have specific complaints which they want brought to public notice in the hope of bringing pressure to bear and gaining some advantage.

41.

There is no evidence of any outside financial support for or control of the New Left. This might not be easy to arrange in the case of so heterogenous a movement. The 70s Bi-Weekly group has (according to one unconfirmed report) already refused communist help, and others probably would. Students can usually find small sums needed to pay for leaflets and so on. The 70s Bi-Weekly group obtains some income from the sale of its publication, but is in difficulty. The position is unlikely to change.

Conclusions

42.

Dissident expatriates first introduced New Left ideas and techniques here. Their number has diminished; and although some individuals (particularly teachers) may continue to

/have an

CONFIDENTIAL