SECRET
(c) Opposition Backbenchers:
It was agreed that No's 10's authority for briefing Opposition backbenchers was needed. Any briefing of them would concentrate mainly on the present situation and historical background.
ACTION: Mr Clift to follow up with Private Offices to seek
the go-ahead.
(d) All Party Groups:
Sir Jack Cater would be speaking to the All Party Committee, giving them general background, on 6 December. The Secretary of State had also addressed the Committee but had not spoken in much detail. It was generally agreed that there should be more briefing of MPs of all parties.
MR ROBERT ADLEY MP
2. The Secretary of State had seen him since his visit to Hong
Kong. Since then he had tried to speak to Mr Luce on the telephone. Mr Hal Miller MP had told Mr Luce that he was very concerned about Mr Adley's views and his contact with the Chinese Ambassador. Mr Luce said that while some of Mr Adley's views on the
future were not unrealistic, his criticism of the Hong Kong
Government and the Governor was unacceptable. The main problem was that he implied that the FCO went along with them and that he was some kind of go-between between HMG and the Chinese. It was suggested that Mr Miller or Sir P Blaker might mention to the Chinese Ambassador that Mr Adley did not represent HMG. However, it
was felt that this might get back to Mr Adley. Mr Luce would think further, but was inclined to ask Mr Miller to put in a discreet
word.
INSTRUCTIONS TO HMA FOR NEXT ROUND OF TALKS:
3. Mr Clift proposed that Ministers should confirm the general line
that HMA should take at the next round on 7/8 December. He had
submitted a draft telegram for this purpose. It should be sent once
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.