TNAG-0384-FCO40-430-Trade-relations-between-Hong-Kong-and-the-EEC-1973 — Page 10

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compromise between European Integration Department

and Hong Kong Department was impossible. It

therefore fell to me to take a decision which was

that we should go ahead and make an approach in

Brussels on Hong Kong's behalf in order to carry

out and to be seen to carry out Geoffrey Rippon's

undertaking. I attach a copy of the record of the

meeting.

Mr. Robinson accepted this decision but made

it clear that it was against both his recommendation

and that of European Integration Department. AS

there is very little time left, this matter will

have to be put to the E.U.M. Committee this week.

Julian Amery is being briefed accordingly.

I thought you should be aware of this

background. I also attach a personal letter

which I received this morning from Michael Herries.

This confirms me in my view that we should pursue

Hong Kong's interests vigorously at this time.

AR

1 October, 1973

Anthony Royle

cc. to: Private Secretary to Mr. Amery

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