TNAG-0561-FCO40-656-Review-of-narcotics-problem-in-Hong-Kong-1975 — Page 39

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Reference......

Mr Williams (Marine & Transport Department)

NARCOTICS: INTERCEPTION OF THAI TRAWLERS ON THE HIGH SEAS

119

1. At a tripartite meeting held in London on 9-10 June, between US/Hong Kong/UK narcotics officials, two new proposals for the interception of Thai trawlers carrying drugs to Hong Kong were put forward. These proposals were further discussed at a meeting in the Office between Hong Kong officials and Sir Duncan Watson on 25 June. I attach a copy of the record of this meeting; the two proposals in question are set out in paragraphs 4 and 5.

2. We are seeking the views of Hong Kong, Peking and the MOD on the two proposals. I should be grateful for your advice, and for those of the Legal Advisers to whom this minute has been copied, on the legality of the action proposed by the Thais. Is it permissible under the law of the high seas for military or other personnel of a government to arrest a vessel flying the flag of its own state. Could an arrest, for instance, take place under a UN sanction (i.e., the Beira patrol).

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3. We are ourselves doubtful whether either scheme stands a realistic chance of getting off the ground. particular we doubt very much whether the MOD will agree to the use of a Royal Naval vessel for putting a Thai official aboard a trawler suspected of smuggling, even if this were to occur in international waters. However, we told the Hong Kong officials that we would consider the two proposals and have a further meeting with them in the week beginning 21 July. It would be helpful if you could let us have your comments by then.

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