TNAG-0627-FCO40-775-Effect-of-GATT-Multi-Fibre-Arrangement-on-Hong-Kong-negotiat-1977 — Page 33

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fared at their various meetings. Mr Tien said that he would probably hold a press conference on 23 June and would send a transcript to Mr Murray. In return he asked if a copy of the minutes of these meetings could be sent to him. Mr Chen wished to know HMG's views on globalisation which was the main fear of the Hong Kong industries. Mr Stern said that he regretted that he could not reveal the present stage of negotiations within the EEC but he pointed out that some of the fears expressed in the Hong Kong press were without foundation. He considered that HMG expected the EEC/Hong Kong bilateral agreement to be continued. Mr Chen pointed out that Mr Meacher had advocated globalisation in Parliament and asked whether he still advocated this. Mr Murray suggested that this question should be directed to Mr Meacher. Mr Lin said that in Hong Kong it was felt that the French were more inclined to protection and that the Germans were more liberal. Hong Kong naturally wished HMG to be on the side of the liberals. Mr Stern pointed out that the UK position was somewhere between that of the French and the Germans. Mr Murray concluded the meeting by wishing the delegation success in their discussions with the DOT and DOI.

23 June 1977

Copies:

Mr Murray Mr Stewart

Mr Milton

Mr Stern

The Hon Francis Y J Tien

Mr Webb-Johnson (HKGO)