TNAG-1031-FCO40-1281-Visits-by-Sir-Murray-MacLehose--Governor-of-Hong-Kong--to-th-1981 — Page 53

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8. Understand your concern that UK commitment should continue.

However, strong opposition here to further quota due to economic

and social difficulties. Will have to watch carefully any sharp

change in circumstances.

9. [If raised] Afraid political atmosphere simply will not

allow agreement to exclusion of ship rescues from quota. We

fully understand Hong Kong's position. Our judgement is that

we will get nowhere at present but we will strongly press Hong

Kong's case on ship rescues in anticipation of the exhaustion

of the quota.

MR RIDLEY'S VISIT TO HONG KONG

[The Governor may wish to ask Mr Ridley's wishes on a programme]

10. Depending on time available, valuable to see as much as

possible of:

a) new developments (Urban and New Territories);

b) the border;

c) developments in local administration.

In addition to discussion with officials, meetings with the

Unofficial Members of the Executive and Legislative Councils

(UMELCO) and possibly the Urban Council would be desirable.

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