TNAG-1253-FCO40-1586-Third-countries-and-the-future-of-Hong-Kong-1983 — Page 150

SECRET

It will follow visits to South East Asian countries. The Governor of Hong Kong has said that he would be glad to see Mr Hayden and to offer him lunch. We understand Mr Hayden will also be meeting senior bankers and industrialists. We believe this visit provides

a good opportunity to bring the Australians up to date and to take them more fully into our confidence on the course of our talks with the Chinese. We know that they would welcome this.

5.

Mr Hayden could be briefed either before he leaves Canberra by our High Commissioner if there is time, or in Hong Kong by the Governor. (We have asked Canberra to let us know when Mr Hayden leaves Australia). We should also keep the Australians generally up to date in London on a strictly confidential and personal basis as was done with Sir Victor Garland in February.

I do not believe it is necessary for us to seek the Prime Minister's approval again on this question, but in case it is considered necessary I have attached a suitable draft.

6.

17 June 1983

سم اکیا

W Morris

Hong Kong Department

I hope that the Secretary of

thèse

very doubt if

No 10,

State will agree wvie

limited and circumscribed briefings. I

we need to

seek any fresh auttonty from

but the Ponnie Muister was cautious

en The

early days of the new Australian Gorcomment (see Mag A.)

the Private Secretary may just wish to keep

ad

Mr. Coles in the picture if

if the s

s.gs

s has given

his approval.

Alfonald

17/6

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A, B

1

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Mr Donald