TNAG-0541-FCO40-636-Strength-of-garrison-in-Hong-Kong-1975 — Page 60

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SECRET UK EYES A

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obtain the greatest possible Hong Kong contribution. To have the maximum impact, this message would need

to be in a form he could show his Executive and

Legislative Councils, and I am doubtful whether we should openly refer to the possibility of further cuts in the garrison. It should be sufficient to

refer to our own serious economic situation. Colony has also been going through bad times and they should be reminded of the problems facing us.

4.

The

In my judgment it is probably better to begin negotiations with Hong Kong at the official level which is less conspicuous. At a later stage and if the negotiations look like reaching an impasse, we can consider the advisability of sending a Minister to Hong Kong.

5.

I am copying this to the Prime Minister, to our other OPD colleagues and to Sir John Hunt.

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