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However,
to those, such as RAF Kai Tak and Victoria Barracks, which are occupied under the terms of a Memorandum of Appropriation. I should have thought that any reference to the Defence Costs Agreement in connection with Sir Denys Roberts' visit might touch off pointless speculation in Hong Kong that there was to be a reopening of negotiations about the cost sharing arrangements for the Garrison. Nor is such a reference entirely consistent with the notion of Sir Denys having talks with members of HKIOD.
4. It would be better if Hong Kong were to say no more to the press than is in the actual announcement (suitably amended) of Sir Denys Roberts' visit. If they cannot hold the position in this way and, in particular, feel that some mention of the Legislative Council will need to be made in unattributable briefing and there
has already been some comment in the Hong Kong press about possible changes in/expansion of the Council - I think that this might be linked to the imminent expiry of the terms of appointment of certain of its members. Hong Kong telegram no. 548 of 31 May, which the department is considering separately, is relevant in
this connection.
5.
In the light of these considerations, I recommend a reply to Hong Kong's telegram on the linesof the attached draft. Incidentally, Mr Kidd has told me that Mr David Jeaffreson, the Deputy Financial Secretary, will be the financial expert accompanying Sir Denys Roberts. From the way which Mr Kidd spoke about Sir Denys' visit, it was evident that Hong Kong have not revealed the real reason for it to him. It may be that Mr Ford is also in the dark, which could explain, to my mind, Hong Kong's somewhat odd telegram.
1 June 1976
cc:
In
Mr Attewell (News Dept)
Mr Larmour o.r.
B.F. Millon
DF Milton
Hong Kong & Indian Ocean Dept
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