CONFIDENTIAL
3.
If we
are to make such a threat we have to be ready to carry it out. It is one thing to demand the withdrawal of a Bulgarian but quite another to embark on a row with the Chinese at a moment when work within the
JLG on Hong Kong is at a delicate stage. There are already difficulties in relations with China coming up, notably the fact that we shall have to breach the ships
contract.
4. I therefore believe that we should approach this
problem more slowly and cautiously. Extra time would also allow us to consult the Secretary of State who may
wish to consider the problem in the light of the Hong Kong negoiations. Accordingly I recommend
a) that Mr Hervey should use his speaking note as it stands but ommitting the two sentences containing the
threat of withdrawal.
b) that the Secretary of State should be briefed to give the new Chinese Ambassador an informal warning on the subject at the opening of the Chinese Export Gallery
at the V & A on 20 October.
5.
not.
Hong Kong Department agree. Protocol Department do
RC1AAD
Robert Cooper
Head of Far Eastern Department
270 2951
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