TNAG-0573-FCO40-706-Monitoring-of-progress-made-on-planning-paper-on-Hong-Kong-1976 — Page 29

M.P.

11.12.76

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One cannot help but suspect that these politicians have acted purely out of self-interest, and that they are trying to protect Britain's home industry

and its workers. They have not acted out of any concern for Hong Kong's workers.

In their motion the Labour MPs rejected "the view that China's possible

concern for developments in Hong Kong prevents any real social or democratic

advance being made in the Colony." They think no matter what China's intentions

are, it is possible to introduce social and democratic reforms in Hong Kong.

But China will object if Hong Kong makes any real progress towards

democracy.

The Peking authorities will never allow the people of Hong Kong to choose by a popular election a non-Communist Chinese Government to run Hong

Kong.

M.P.

13.12.76

That has been

, роботу унше...

Courtituted, for fee port to year.

K.S.D.N.

8.12.76

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Actually, it is the Welfare State and the trade union system in Britain that require "urgent reforms".

It has always been "left-wing extremists" who make a mess of a country,

its society and people. It is the same in China and in Britain.

In line with their democracy-loving spirit, these MPs should sign a motion to grant Hong Kong even greater autonomy in managing her affairs. The Executive and Legislative Councils can then decide on matters affecting Hong Kong without

interference from the British Government.

The Labour Government is interfering more and more in Hong Kong affairs. It has already aroused strong public resentment here by forcing Hong Kong to abolish the death penalty. Now the pressure is being applied on other fronts. Such action shows up the "colonial status of Hong Kong" and obviously runs counter to the principles of democracy and the mainstream of British political thinking.

The Hong Kong authorities should devise their policies according to local requirements, and must not be swayed by the extremist theories of certain "blind" politicians. We must also not become a puppet of the Labour Government and transplant the British system to Hong Kong.

There are reports that the Hong Kong Government will be sending senior officials periodically to Britain to foster better understanding between the two Governments. This is a good way of reconciling differences, but it is more important that Hong Kong adhere to the principle that she must do things her own way.