TNAG-1556-FCO40-2120-Broadcasting-in-Hong-Kong-1986 — Page 21

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4. I recommend that, if Mr Ai raises this, Mr Eggar should express polite interest, make it clear this is a matter for the management of the BBC External Services who are independent of Government, and ask what the BBC's response to this idea has

been.

5. The BBC relay station being constructed in Hong Kong is due to be operational in 1987/88. We have consciously

not discussed with the Chinese authorities the implications for the station after 1997, as this might have suggested they had some right to be consulted. The positive attitude of Mr Ai towards the BBC External Services is encouraging. However we understand that the Chinese have already objected to the BBC that the frequencies they intend to use in Hong Kong will interfere with Chinese domestic radio services. The BBC have tried to reassure them. I do not think Mr Eggar should take the initiative of raising it with Mr Ai.

е

Georgis Wight

G S Wright (Mrs)

Information Department