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would be undesirable for British Representatives to leave the social field in possession of such persons. If a British Representative is brought unavoidably face to face with one of these representatives on such an occasion as little courtesy should be shown as is con- sistent with civilised manners.
(5) If, however, there is foreknowledge of the expected presence of any of these representatives at a small function to which the British Representative is invited, where it would be difficult to avoid being drawn into general conversation with the representatives concerned, he may at his discretion decline the invitation.
(6) Similarly, a diplomatic colleague's invitation to a function at which the representative of a State or Government not recognised by Her Majesty's Government is guest of honour should be declined, but not normally an invitation to a colleague's function at which the representative of the non-recognised State or Government is merely one of a number of guests. The attitude on such an occa- sion should be as described in (4) above, and while avoiding action which could lead to any kind of incident it may be desirable to cut short attendance at the function (e.g. by leaving a luncheon or dinner-party soon after the conclusion of the meal).
(7) The foregoing paragraphs are intended for general guidance and should not be regarded as rigid instructions to be ap- plied in every case. Circumstances may occasionally arise where it may be necessary to modify conduct to avoid, for example, a damaging incident or the appearance of disunity among st representa- tives of the Western Powers.
(8) It is desirable that the Western representatives at the post should as far as possible maintain a common front in the se matters. It may be useful to discuss these instructions informally and privately with one or more of the leading Western colleagues and to seek to formulate an agreed line of action to cover the various circumstances contemplated. But if publicity is likely to be the result, it would be wiser to do nothing until a concrete case presents itself.
2.
Communications emanating from such Governments or Representatives
(1) A distinction must be drawn between:
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September, 1966
147.
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