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None of this gives a totally reliable poll of public opinion but the channels are certainly improving. I have stressed to the Governor the value which we attach to his assessment of public attitudes. One of the problems is that the mass of material makes collation difficult. However Hong Kong are providing the main items of press comment etc by telegram. We in the Department will consider how we can best assess these at this end.
Action Over the Next Four Months
9.
The Governor's view is that while there is considerable frustration and a need for signs of action the position can probably hold until about September. By far the best confidence builder would be a clear sign of movement in the talks themselves, demonstrated by his visiting Peking. unclear at present and dependent upon the Ambassador's next talks with the Foreign Minister.
10.
This is
If progress continues to be slow we shall need to consider other moves. In chronological order these might be:
(a) a confident mention of HMG's commitment and objective in
the talks in the Queen's speech. I have minuted separately about this.
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
A visit to London by EXCO Unofficials. This has already been agreed in principle by Ministers but delayed because of the election. We should probably aim for early July when the new Administration has settled in.
Visits by other groups to London. This should be carefully handled because, when there is little or nothing to say about
But the talks, meetings here may only increase frustration. there would obviously be advantage in the young professionals group visiting London to report on their talks in Peking. The Governor will probably be proposing this.
An approach to the Chinese on the question of confidence. This would depend upon the Ambassador's discussions. It might be worth pointing out to Peking the serious effects of delay in getting the negotiations going and perhaps a joint statement designed to help confidence.
The Governor
A visit by the Secretary of State to Hong Kong. has written to the PUS about this. Sir P Cradock has expressed doubts because if a visit to Peking were not included the impression given might be rather one of worry than confidence. Obviously there are difficulties but the idea should be borne in mind. It might be fitted in before or after the UN General Assembly.
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