TNAG-1117-FCO40-1391-Future-of-the-Dependent-Territories-1982 — Page 148

CONFIDENTIAL

3.

b)

To attempt to define the expression 'British Empire' and its present day usage.

I recommend, however, that we use use a). Given the complexity of the expression in both legal, defined and undefined terms and formal and informal usage, we would be hard put to stay within the fifty word limit for the PQ, and, would, I believe, involve ourselves in lengthy legal argument. I agree with Miss Brett-

Rooks that we avoid reference to the 'Commonwealth' and limit our reply to those 'Dependent Territories'. The attached back- ground paper should accompany this reply.

4. I should be grateful for your comments.

A reply has to reach

Mr Luce's office by noon on Tuesday 16 February 1982.

Flag /D

15 February 1982

CONFIDENTIAL

G C Livesey

Hong Kong and General Department K 248

233-4475