TNAG-1987-FCO40-2820-Presentation-of-UK-policy-on-Hong-Kong-to-the-media-1989 — Page 45

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I could speak When it yon (News there

want

Mr Paul, HKD

pl. p/w the over 2 cc.d

this minute.

FROM:

DH Colvin

chioli

امل

South-East Asian Department

DATE:

8 November 1989

CC:

PS/Mr Maude

Mr Gillmore

Mr McLaren

Mr Burns, News Dept

нко HRD 301/1

STEPHEN MILLIGAN, BBC TV

1

Stephen Milligan, who is an old friend from Brussels days when he was Head of The Economist's office, rang me today. He was under the impression that I was responsible for Hong Kong and sought

assistance.

2 He says that he has agreed to make a speech in a month's time defending HMG's policy towards Hong Kong. It would be most helpful if we could supply him with suitable material and if he could also come in for a briefing on a background basis. I said that I was sure that we could oblige and promised that someone would contact him in the next day or so to carry the matter forward. (He will be

at home 741 7996 for the next three days. His work number is

576 7690).

?

COMMENT

3 I understand that Stephen Milligan is the BBC's Diplomatic Correspondent. When I knew him in Brussels he was reliable and

serious-minded. I have no reason to doubt that he will genuinely defend British Hong Kong policy once it is fully explained to him. Andrew Burns, who no doubt has regular contact with Stephen Milligan, may wish to comment.

WRZmin

D H Cclvin

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