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lead rapidly to a solution of the problem of Hong Kong's future. This could cause difficulties, particularly since Sir Lawrence
A has fastened on to the news of the Secretary of State's forth-
E, F
coming visit to Peking and apparently plans not only to be in Hong Kong during Lord Carrington's visit but also possibly to go on to Peking - by implication with him. If he really were in China during the Secretary of State's visit this could cut across Lord Carrington's own discusions with Chinese leaders.
6.
We therefore need to consider how we can tactfully get across to Sir Lawrence that, while we realise that the project has political significance, we do not necessarily see it as central to Chinese thinking on the future of Hong Kong. I suggest that this could most convincingly be done by the Governor when he returns to Hong Kong in the middle of this month. You may wish to discuss this with him when he calls on 8 August and to follow this up with a letter on the lines of the attached draft.
7.
It would also be useful to get the Governor's views on the proposal that the Hong Kong Government should also participate in the scheme. At present the position is as described in Hong Kong telegrams Nos 855 of 7 July and 936 of 25 July.
I have discussed with Mr McLaren who agrees.
8.
Бир
R D Clift
5 August 1980
Hong Kong and General Department
cc Mr McLaren FED
B.T.C. Hmg Kmy tel No 108 is indeed already active
Dir'ils
shows that Sir L Kadooric
CONFIDENTIAL
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