TNAG-0524-FCO40-619-Visits-of-Sir-Murray-MacLehose--Governor-of-Hong-Kong--to-Lo-1976 — Page 95

CONFIDENTIAL

22

Sir D Watson

THE GOVERNOR OF HONG KONG'S VISIT TO THE UK

1.

You agreed to send a Personal telegram to the Governor following our talk with Mr Herries yesterday. I have thought a bit

more about the idea of an alternative social event which might

serve both the political and the trading purposes of the visit. The difficulty with Hong Kong's present plans is that they are

directed solely to the export of Hong Kong textiles to the UK. This is a tricky theme in present UK circumstances and it would be difficult to get top people here involved. But if the theme became

a two-way one of the inter-dependence of Hong Kong and Britain, these problems might largely disappear, and it would also be more relevant to the Queen's visit.

2.

But I am Similarly

I attach the draft of a possible telegram from you to the Governor. I have discussed this in general terms with the Department of Trade, Mr Galsworthy and Mr Herries. All think the idea worth pursuing. One problem would be who should reply to Sir Murray's speech. I think there would be advantage in having the Secretary for Trade at the dinner. Few people in Hong Kong know whether he is primarily concerned with imports to the UK or exports to Hong Kong. less sure that a speech by Mr Shore would be appropriate. if Mr Shore was present, it might be difficult for Lord Goronwy- Roberts to make a speech. Best of all would be if the Duke of Edinburgh could be present and could speak. I think this could be explained in terms of the impending Queen's visit without exposing him to criticism in the UK on textiles, corruption etc. The impending Queen's visit might also dispose him to accept an invitation. Protocol and Conference Department have confirmed that he will be in the UK but I have not, at this stage, checked his detailed programme, though I know it is very full.

3.

Mr Herries will be writing to the Governor this afternoon. I have promised to try to let him know before lunch whether you think

/the idea

CONFIDENTIAL

ра

30

2812