CONFIDENTIAL
C
Each section contains speaking notes on the subjects identified by the Secretary of State on 16 March as ones on which he would like to speak in some detail, and on the specific questions identified by the Committee. These are supplemented by defensive material where appropriate. Written material on subjects such as the work of the JLG, Air Services and nationality, which can be passed to the Committee in advance of the formal evidence session, is under preparation.
3. The Clerk has stressed that the Committee regard this first evidence session as primarily an information gathering exercise. The questions will be designed in part to give the Secretary of State an opportunity to make some positive points. He did not however exclude the possibility that the members of the Committee might pursue their own individual interests. With this in mind, we have prepared a summary of views expressed by Committee members in Commons debates from 1984 to 1988.
4.
The Clerk has told us that the Chairman of the Committee is likely to invite the Secretary of State to say a few brief introductory words (lasting no more than 2/3 minutes). The briefing includes a speaking note for this purpose.
5. As the Secretary of State is probably aware, the entire proceedings will be broadcast live in Hong Kong. Television cameras will of course not be permitted into the Committee Room, but there may well be cameras outside.
6. The briefing covers most of the ground to the extent that this has been possible in the time available. There are however still some points on which we shall need to consult Hong Kong (we are doing so over the weekend) and Mr Fifoot on his return to the office.
on Monday. We will in addition continue to polish and refine the material.
CONF IDENTIAL
ARPanc
A R Paul
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Private notes are available after approval.