TNAG-0466-FCO40-531-Hong-Kong-s-interests-in-EEC-capitals-1974 — Page 128

UNCLASSIFIED

Mr KEH Morris POD

Reference..

HKK 6/598/2

HONG KONG'S INTERESTS IN THE ELC CAPITALS

1.

Both we and the Hong Kong Government have been considering how best Hong Kong's interests might be fostered within the LEC. There is a clear need for a better presentation of Hong Kong's case in the capitals of the nine.

the L

2. When Mr Jordan, Director of Hong Kong Department of Commerce and Industry, called to see Mr Royle in early December, Mr Royle suggested that a solution to this problem might be to nominate a member, presumably of the Commercial Section, in each of our Embassies in the EEC to look after Hong Kong's interests. Mr Royle made it clear that we could not consider increasing staff for this purpose and that the aim would be to create a focal point in each Mission.

3. I attach a copy of our telegram no 8 to Hong Kong and their reply (Hong Kong telegram no 36) which adds further details.

4.

In collaboration with EID we propose writing to our Missions in the ELC capitals along the lines of the attached draft, which, as you will see, is largely based on Hong Kong telegram no 36. Before doing so I should be glad of your approval to the action proposed and, of course, for any comments you may have on the draft. If necessary we could arrange a meeting but this appears to be unnecessary.

MA Goodfellow Hong Kong & Indian Ocean Department

21 January 1974

cc:

Mr J Davison (FFD)

Mr J Plant (Inspectorate) Mr K MacInnes (WED)

Mr JB Donnelly (RID)

Mr R D Hart (EID)

1. This will requine careful handling. There are in post aut trade policy considerations & cold

will aled to

consult TRED

2. This is really one

well!

+DT!.

you

wee for your department, but we think it would be better to consult posts

I fust