TNAG-0331-FCO40-367-Visits-of-Secretary-of-State-for-Foreign-and-Commonwealth-Af-1972 — Page 127

but also about the growth of your industry and the competition

which it offers. I am glad to say that the tendency of these

questions is not all on the side of protectionism and that there

is also recognition that Hong Kong, as well as Lancashire,

mæt be given a fair deal.

14. In British centres of finance and commerce, of course,

•

*

Hong Kong's reputation is second to none. There is also growing

awareness among the public in the United Kingdom of Hong Kong and

its position. Of course your proposed services and you are

wise to use them - have a good start in the most photogenic city

harbour

5.

in the world.

We in the British Government will continue to do our best

to help you.

We understand your problems and your aspirations

and through visits and reports we keep in close touch. This

visit of mine, short though it is, has greatly helped to confirm

the impressions I have already had from innumerable people who

have told me about your affairs. We pay you the compliment of

believing you well able to manage your own affairs within the

limitations of your constitution.

This has always been the

tradition. I have only to look around me to see that it has

worked out pretty well. Our principal political concern is that

social progress should match your economic growth. This, I

know, is your Government's objective and it already has many

This is the only

achievements to its credit in this field.

-2-

CONFIDENTIAL

S