TNAG-0849-FCO40-1059-Future-of-Hong-Kong-New-Territories-leases-1979 — Page 81

FCO40 Hong Kong Department Records 聯邦事務部香港部檔案 All

4

Imiain's Labour Union has conuiderwole power. Walt allow

vde ́en be subjected to the restrictions of the Iron Luly' in futurt?

This is a problem. The down fall of the former Conservative Government led

by ma. Heath was censed by the British coal miners strike. Problems will

keep on coming if Mrs. Thatcher's govemment does not maintain good relations

with the British Labour Union.

Today, Britain is no longer the 'Great British Empire', The main

features of its economy are low productivity, poor competivity of its products

and the decline of its intemational markets. The effect of its reform in

the taxation system and the methods to stimulate its economy will have a great

influence on the future of the Conservative Govenment.

Relations with China in future

The future Anglo-Chinese relations after the succession of the

'Iron Lady' is a matter which everyone is much concerned.

The Anglo-Chinese relations have greatly improved during the

administration of the Labour Government. However, because of the Labour

Government's desire to compromise with the Soviet Union, the friendly

relationships with China had not been fully developed. Even trade relations

were unsatisfactory. For instance, China intended to purchase the Harrier

Jump-jet (vertical take-off aircraft) from Britain so as to deal with the

ambitious Soviet Union. In fact, it is big business, but the Labour Government

was afraid that it would offend the Kremlin so it hesitated with this transaction.

The Conservative Party has a strong stance against Soviet Union and it would

like to have closer relations with China. In the year before last year, both

the present Tory leader, Mrs. Thatcher and the former leader, Mr. Heath visited

China at different times. They were greeted warmly by the Chinese authorities.

It is natural that China and Britain will develop a more comprehensive exchange of

ideas on politics, economies, culture and scientific technology as well as co-

operation.

/China flatters

Comments

Approved members can add comments, bookmarks, and private notes.

No comments yet.

Private Research Note

Private notes are available after approval.