with the Trade Commission,
Incidentally, if we were able to meet Hong Kong's strong wish that we should grant traffic rights in the Colony to Scandinavian Air Services, I am sure that this would have a very favourable effect on the climate for contracts connected with the airport, and indeed for British business generally. Conversely, a refusal will prejudice our chances. Unfortunately, your colleagues in the Civil Aviation Division, as you may know, are opposed to this and the Foreign and Commonwealth Secretary's proposals on this have recently been turned down by your Department.
We are, however, continuing to study the question since Hong Kong has been the recipient of two very substantial blows from HMG recently - the losses on their sterling holdings due to the floating of the pound, and your Department's proposals for restraint on their exports of polyester cotton to this country.
5. As you will know, ODA funds are now very tight indeed, and it will not be easy to get money for Hong Kong. But I know we can count on DTI support. We were very grateful for it last year when your Secretary of State himself minuted to the Foreign and Commonwealth Secretary about aid for the Hong Kong technical
institutes.
Yours sincerely,
liciaeć
hilford
K M Wilford
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