TNAG-1097-FCO40-1347-Chinese-visa-office-in-Hong-Kong-1982 — Page 138

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Mr Morric

MOPTICE 2

15 APR 1021

CONFIDENTIAL

DESK OLCUA INDEX

CHINESE VISA OFFICE IN HONG KONG

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1.

Sir E Youde discussed this with the Governor and officials during the Secretary of State's visit to Hong Kong. He pressed Hong Kong to consider whether arrangements should not be made to obtain legal authority for the privileges which the Chinese were seeking. He stressed that it would be unwise to irritate the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Peking too far when we had other delicate business to do with them including problems over the future.

2.

The main objection to action on the Visa Office came from Sir J Cater, who saw it as a dangerous step likely to appear as the prelude to a special representative. The Governor had some sympathy with Sir J Cater's views but has agreed that Hong Kong will consider what form of legislation would be needed in order to provide the privileges for which the Chinese have asked. They will consider also what interpretation would be placed on such legislation if it were enacted and also in what form we should ensure that the undertakings given by the Assistant Foreign Minister Song Zhiaguang might be interpreted in any agreement (Peking telegram No 26 of 3 April to Hong Kong).

3.

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The ball is now in Hong Kong's court. They will report when they have considered.

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See 154

13 April 1981

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MVD

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R D Clift

Hong Kong and General Department

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CONFIDENTIAL