TNAG-1005-FCO40-1254-Capital-punishment-in-Hong-Kong-1981 — Page 91

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CONFIDENTIAL

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12. HMG's policy towards Hong Kong on the issue has been based

on the premise that opinion in the House was against capital

punishment. It would be difficult to defend a change in that

position in the absence of a vote by Parliament to demonstrate

that there is a Parliamentary majority in favour of capital

punishment.

13.

Therefore, subject to the Governor's views, the best course

is to preserve HMG's position on the question. After the 'South

China Morning Post' article appeared, FCO Telegram No 602 of

17 July (cleared with Mr Ridley's Office) was sent, saying that

there had been no change of policy. It would, however, be helpful

to follow this up on the lines of the draft letter and telegram.

Bip

R D Clift

31 July 1981

Hong Kong and General Department

сс

Sir E Youde

Mr Ure

Mr Goodison

Mr Rushford, Legal Advisers

CONFIDENTIAL