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the first year of the Scheme (beginning September 1987); experience with
similar schemes suggests that only about 350 awards are likely to be taken up,
due to difficulties with health, visas and competence in English. The draft
minutes of the June Commission meeting, prepared by the Sir Y K Pao
Foundation, include a suggestion, apparently originating with the Foundation,
that the Prime Minister might hold a reception for the students arriving in
September. (The Foundation's London office, with whom we have been in touch,
have not confirmed Sir Y K Pao's interest in this.) When Sir Y K Pao
breakfasted with the Secretary of State on 16 July, he asked whether any.
arrangements were being made to welcome the first batch of students.
5. The case for holding a reception does not appear to be strong. There has
been no indication from the Chinese that they would expect one and Sir Y K
Pao's interest has not been clearly expressed. The cost of a reception for
350 students, and for representatives of the universities they are attending
and others associated with the Scheme would be substantial - probably not less
than £5,000, apart from the cost of bringing many of the students to London from their place of study.
6. A simpler and far less costly way of marking the beginning of the scheme
would be for Mr Patten to make a modest, presentation, with appropriate
publicity, to the Chinese Ambassador and to Sir Y K Pao (or, more likely in
practice, his London representative). This might be timed to follow the
arrival of the first small group of 10-15 students (expected next week), who
could be invited to attend. The presentation might take place early next.
month if practicable or, failing that, immediately after the summer break, in
early September. If this proposal is agreed, invitations to Sir Y K Pao
(through his London representative) and to the Chinese Ambassador could be
arranged through Mr Patten's office.
7. This submission has been agreed with Hong Kong Department and Far East
Department.
Пвасаси Нанин
r
R M Graham-Harrison
Eastern Asia Department
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Private notes are available after approval.