the Colony.
SECRET
33.
Some of the criticism of Britain which
is voiced is no more than a reaction to hard things
said about Hong Kong by the British press or by visiting
back-benchers, which are invariably over-dramatised in the
Hong Kong press. Other criticism merely reproduces
agency reports of the UK and international press. There
is nevertheless a recognition that the link with Britain
is essential to Hong Kong's existence, and that in a
hostile world, Britain is one of her few friends. There
is also deep underlying affection and respect which mani-
fested itself at the time of the Queen's visit. Insofar
as criticism of Britain may be based on a misunderstanding
of our policies, achievements and attitudes, an
intensification of the considerable information effort
conducted jointly by the Senior British Trade Commissioner's
office and the Information Services of the HK Government
may be helpful.
35.
There is also a need to continue to advocate
Hong Kong's case here strongly and to counter ill-informed
criticisms of conditions in the Colony. No policy will
convince critics who, for idealistic or ideological
reasons or from resentment at Hong Kong's competitive
power, press HMG to force change upon Hong Kong at a rate
faster than its circumstances permit. But obviously our
ability to convince responsible critics depends upon the
extent to which reforms in this Paper can be carried through
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