TNAG-0372-FCO40-418-Visits-of-members-of-Heung-Yee-Kuk-(Rural-Consultative-Counc-1973 — Page 91

CONFIDENTIAL

Mr Moore (Visits Section IAD)

Reference........

2

VISIT BY THE HEUNG YEE KUK

1.

I attach a copy of Hong Kong telegram No 504 about a visit to Britain by the Heung Yee Kuk. This is usually translated as the New Territories' Rural Consultative Council. It is an elected body with advisory functions covering the New Territories in Hong Kong which, as you know, comprise by far the greatest land area of the Colony.

2.

Although the telegram from Hong Kong does not actually say so, I understand from the Hong Kong Government Office that it would be very much appreciated if we could help with part of the programme, perhaps for 3 days of the visit. The rest of the time would be organised partly by the Hong Kong Government Office and partly by the Chinese Chamber of Traders in London. The kind of visits which we are asked to organise are those mentioned in paragraph 2, ie institutions concerned with housing, sewage disposal, police, welfare, state schools and hospitals. A visit to a new town would be particularly appreciated. The party would be especially interested in land acquisition and land use planning, but it should be remembered that they are not experts in the field.

3.

Mr Royle has agreed in principle to see some of the party on the afternoon of 19 May. The dates offered to us are 21, 22 and 25 May. No evening entertainment would be expected. The Hong Kong Government Office would provide interpreters. Mr Bray, the District Commissioner, New Territories (who is shortly to become Secretary for Home Affairs, the third or fourth most important post in the Administration) may accompany the party for some of the time. For transport, a coach seating 25 people would seem to be indicated.

4. I very much hope you will feel able to help with this visit. We do not do a great deal for visitors from Hong Kong, and this is a good opportunity to make a favourable impression on local people of some influence.

9 May 1973

R B Crowson

Hong Kong & Indian Ocean Department

(17293) 897465 400m 1/73 GWBL 4 Gp 861