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f
an in
and thing our underlying interest in the good govern of Hong Kong.
them and those of Hong Kong wherever there may be a
conflict.
4.
We have in the present Governor a man who knows
Jho Whitehall better than any of his predecessors, and is
understands our nosition, and who does not make therefore predisposed to be understanding of our demands except when the substantial interests of May Kang positions and demands-s I therefore think that
ed
of
narrow
should try to help him when we can, in meeting his
preoccupatione. The difficulty is that the issues
which arise may well affect only one of our several
Departments, and in each particular case there may
seem an irrefutable case for pursuing the selfish
United Kingdom interest. But when several such issues
arise at the same time, each perhaps not of overriding effect can seriously importance in itself, the cumulative load on the damage confidence in one admin tration anthony Governor's shoulders could become more than he
Hong Ko
bear, bearing in mind that in addition to being the channel for Hong Kong's views to be conveyed to
London he is also the representative of HMG in the
Colony, receiving his instructions through me.
5.
number
There is at the moment a complex of problems all
have to be resolved
of which may fell due for resolution at much the same time. Unless we are very careful, We may find our-
selves deciding on courses of action all of which are opposed by the Government of Hong Kong and/or by public
opinion there. The most vital of these from both
-
is the Sterling Guarantee
our points of view
Agreements.
www
The Chancellor's
recent unilateral offer
six month
is designed to proinde a breathing space while all confined boo take another book at the
to [Insert section on Sterling Agreements
developing situation. Hong Kong is a major holder of
when known]
tharting, and has had, for
variety of historical reasons
to keep a much higher proportion
of High its
in sterling than the other major
tomp present temporary offer
Relarves
overseas holdes.
sens a Sain one
Sain one, but I fear we cannot assume that Work Finally satisfied, Hajkowy, either in the
short or long term.
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