TNAG-0588-FCO40-721-Publications-on-Hong-Kong-affairs-in-UK-Fabian-Society-pamph-1976 — Page 28

Mr O'Keeffe

cc

Mr Larmour

Mr Male

Mr Foggon

CONFIDENTIAL

Mr Galsworthy-

Mr Young

Mr Kerr

FABIAN SOCIETY PAMPHLET ON HONG KONG

Mr okayy

Mr. Cytarz

女

محمد

ний

migur

Whe

see Lud G. R's

Comment

ཚེ་ལྷང་

1.

I read this pamphlet in full last night, having previously only seen a summary. The analysis of social conditions strikes me as pretty devastating but it does not surprise me. I am less convinced by some of Mr England's proposals for dealing with the situation.

2.

(a)

My doubts about his proposals are:-

A commission of enquiry is hardly necessary. Is there any real doubt about the facts of the social situation in Hong Kong?

(b) It is hardly appropriate for a civil servant to comment on the idea of a select committee, as opposition may seem to based on either apprehension or annoyance at the inquiries which such a committee might produce, but I am still inclined to question whether a further committee would really help. My concern is basically that such a committee might by its enquiries and interest in foreign affairs lead us into difficulties with the Chinese Government.

(c)

(a)

I do not see why we should oppose payment of members of Leg Co or its expansion. I also agree that the social base of members should be expanded soon, but I do see objections to elction on whatever franchise. I question Mr England's view that this would not upset the Chinese; I fear that it would indeed suggest that we were moving towards a third China. Nevertheless I should have thought that steps could be taken to widen the franchise for and powers of Urban Councillors and that in the light of Chinese reactions if any to these steps we could consider the election of some Leg Co members.

I don't like the threat of limiting imports or cutting down on British troops; these might be counter productive and should

in any case be unnecessary.

3.

On the other hand:-

(a) The idea of an Ombudsman seems sensible and desirable.

(b) Is there any real objection to Mr England's proposals on the Labour Advisory Board and consultation with the Trade Unions on labour legislation?

1

CONFIDENTIAL

/ (c)