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Hong Kong.
of Hong Kong.
The latter is almost inconceivable in the context
An Order-in-Council would be better, but would
still lead to a constitutional and political conflict.
8.
In the Governor's view, what would meet the overwhelning wish of the population of Hong Kong, and what he would advise on its merits, is the re-application of the Creech Jones doctrine. But the essential proviso here is of course that Ministers should feel able to abide by such an undertaking in practice.
At our meeting, you said that you had misgivings on this last point, in the light of political realities in the UK. An execution in long Kong would not pass unnoticed, and the Secretary of State would
have to face criticism.
9.
Every available option thus contains powerful counter arguments. If it was possible for you and the Secretary of Blake to discuss these considerations with the Governor during his vinịt from 17-24 June, I believe this would be valuable and help us towards a decision.
W
Wate
11 June 1974
Copies to:
Private Socrotary
PS/IUS
Mr Malo
Mr Larmour
Mr Stuart
Mr Champion Mr Rushford
(Duncan Watson)
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