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LORD PRIVY SEAL'S VISIT TO HONG KONG: 8 TO 10 JANUARY 1982
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BRIEF NO 6 : OVERSEAS STUDENTS FEES
POINTS TO MAKE (DEFENSIVE)
DECISION
1. Very sorry unable to help students from Hong Kong, other
Dependent Territories and the Commonwealth.
Examined this very
carefully before making decision. But need to curb public
expenditure in economic circumstances. No alternative but to
cut back on higher education generally.
FUTURE
2.
Recognise decision disadvantageous for UK as well as Hong
Kong. Welcome academic link. Still looking for ways of easing
position, but no simple solution. Not feasible to single out
individual territories for special treatment. Many competing
claims. Naturally will take Hong Kong's interests into account.
[If pressed] Return to previous position of full home students
status unlikely.
HONG KONG SCHEME
3.
HMG glad
Applaud Hong Kong scheme to help deserving cases.
to help in any way possible, but financial contributions unlikely
at present in economic circumstances.
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