TNAG-0525-FCO40-620-Visit-of-UK-Members-of-Parliament-(Defence-and-External-Affa-1975 — Page 187

CONFIDENTIAL

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HONG KONG: DLFENCE AND EXTERNAL AFFAIRS SUB-COMMITTEE (DEASC)

1. I spoke today to Miss Connolly about the forthcoming visit to Hong Kong (18 to 22 November), recalling that we told the Governor (our telegram no. 506 of 26 June) that we would ensure that the Comittee, before leaving London, is briefed

on:

(a) The use of Hong Kong by the US Navy and the support

given by the US to the security of Hong Kong.

(b) The internal administration of the Colony and the

role of the Governor.

(c) The contribution of Hong Kong to the British economy.

(d) A comparison of the position of Hong Kong and Macao.

We had implied that our input to (a) would be through an FCO contribution to ICD briefing; but we now know that MOD will not be briefing the Committee before their visit. (Ir Jackson's mirute of 8 September.)

2. The best approach will therefore probably be for ICD to coordinate briefing on all the above 4 points seeking CD, FED and TRED (? Economists Department) assistance as appropriate. Miss Connolly will be in touch with the Clerk to the Sub-Committee after the recess (i.e., in the week beginning 13 October) and will suggest an oral briefing session, to take place in the House, during, say, the week beginning 10 November.

3. After the session, we shall probably want to confirm to the Governor that briefing has duly taken place, cormenting on any matters of interest that arise.

9 September 1975

B.H Jinniddy

BI Dinwiddy Hong Kong & Indian Ocean Department

4.

Since dictating the above I have received a copy of hr Benham's minute to the Heads of DS 6 and DS 11 dated & September which confirms that CFF Hong Kong agrees that the Sub-Committee will not require prior briefing on defence matters. Subject, of course, to satisfactory conclusion of the Defence Cost Negotiations I do not think there are any particular points which we would wish to be included or excluded in the briefing which Colonel Falmer is preparing in Hong Kong.

5. Please su

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Miss Connolly's minute of the seme

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CODE

18-77

CONFIDENTIAL