TNAG-0938-FCO40-1157-Visit-of-John-Nott--Secretary-of-State-for-Trade--to-Hong-Ko-1980 — Page 37

MFA

BR

POINTS TO MAKE

1.

The present arrangements under the MFA provide for continued growth of Hong Kong's exports and assure her position as our largest single supplier of textiles.

2. However Hong Kong must be aware of our commitments under the MFA to otherrlow-cost suppliers; and that we must take account of the views of our EC partners in formulating trade policy.

3. Hong Kong has been particularly well organised and honest in implementing her side of the EC-Hong Kong bilateral agreement. Pleased to note energetic action by Hong Kong authorities on origin fraud.

4. The UK fully supports the present MFA and the bilateral agreements and expects the provisions to be implemented fairly by all parties.

5. Given the difficulties faced by our industry, we shall have no alternative but to press for continued management of textile imports after expiry of the present MFA. (This line can also be taken with the press.)