TNAG-1034-FCO40-1284-Visits-by-non-officials-from-Hong-Kong-to-the-UK-1981 — Page 11

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7. On 18 September, Sir Y K wrote to the Prime Minister with copy

of his speech at the Caracas Conference of the International

Chamber of Commerce. This dealt largely with the importance of

collaborative ventures in shipping, but did mention the desirability

dideme

of separate Hong Kong register. In speech Sir Y K also called for end

to politicisation of shipping issued. His call (with which HMG

agree) endorsed by final declaration of Caracas Conference.

SHIPBUILDING

8.

Since 1960s, Sir Y K's company has obtained majority of new

vessels from Japanese yards. However, in January 1981, Sir Y K

placed £23 million order for general cargo vessels with British

Shipbuilders' subsidiary Austin and Pickersgill - his first order

in UK for some time. Intervention fund grants enabled Austin

and Pickersgill to quote competitive pice. Vessels due for

delivery in 1982.

Hong Kong and General Department Foreign and Commonwealth Office

16 December 1981

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