HKK: 021/1
21 APP
BY BAG
(32) in LCCN 2/5061/76
PA
INDEX
a
14th April 1978
Maritime, Aviation and Environment
Department,
F.C.0.
London SW1A 2AH,
England.
Tear Department,
Russian Shipping
Concern has recently been expressed in the Legislative Council about the rapid expansion of the Russian merchant navy fleet and the Russian's apparent policy of under-cutting established conference tariffs. So far Russian penetration of the market to and from Hong Kong hitherto has been minimal. In 1976, Russian vessels carried 1.39% by weight of the cargo passing into and out of Hong Kong, and in 1977, 1.66%. These statistics do not give rise to any immediate concern. But the fear has been expressed in some quarters that continued Russian penetration be against Hong Kong's interest in the long term, and it is being suggested that the Government should draw up contingency plans to deal with this.
Our initial view is that there is probably little action which we could take which would not be counter-productive given that the Russian's motives are not toally economic. It might however be helpful if you could let us have some information on the present state of Russian carryings in major British ports and your policy towards Russian shipping. We should also be grateful if you would keep us informed on developments, and any changes in policy which you might decide upon in the future.
c.c. IIK&GD, FCO
Yours ever,
183
(K. . Lo)
Economic Services Branch Government Secretariat
Commissioner, Hong Kong
Government Office, London
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