TNAG-0714-FCO40-910-Future-of-the-Dependent-Territories-1978 — Page 129

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Britain still responsible for 6 million peoples in colonial

almost

territories, million in Hong Kong. Very special problem as

Chinese value Hong Kong for economic reasons and as a window on

the world and do not wish to disturb the status quo. Any moves,

improvement of social and economic conditions have to be

weighed very carefully against the likely Chinese reaction.

question of defending the territory in the face of Chinese

hostility. This would be impossible.

1,000,000 other

Elsewhere, a variety of problems:

(1) Territories which wish to remain dependent

(2)

on UK but where a large neighbour has a

claim to the territory. Classic example÷

Falklands.

Territories which want independence but

where a more powerful negihbour has a

historic claim which it demands should be

satisfied in some shape or other before

agreeing to that independence. Classic

example: Belize.

(3) Territories which want independence but

where our own legislation requires that

we should be satisfied/obtain proof through

consultation, that this is the wish of the

majority of the people; and where the

No

people.

/opposition