TNAG-1847-FCO40-2622-House-of-Commons-Select-Committee-on-Foreign-Affairs-enquiry-1989 — Page 39

MADABP (2)

L

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Does HMG's special position in Hong Kong make it difficult to represent Britain's interests?

Not at all. Not function of Governor or Hong Kong Government to promote British business.

Unrealistic to expect discrimination in favour of British

companies. Hong Kong Government will defend fiercely its right to

place orders when it wishes.

What we want is level playing field. If we were to tilt playing

field in our direction now, would set unfortunate precedent for

period after 1997.