TNAG-0580-FCO40-713-UK-policy-on-status-of-Hong-Kong-1976 — Page 96

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Miss Lovering (LRD CW328]

1.

(2)

Delimed t sender

I agree

Your minute of 5 October refers. strongly with Mr Austey that these papers should not yet be released. The idea that, even 30 years ago, HMG were considering surrendering the New Territories to China before the expiry of the lease might well be political dynamite in Hong Kong today.

1997, the year the lease expires, might well be a good time to look at these papers again.

12 October 1976

TJ David

Hong Kong Department K 245

233 4777

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