TNAG-2120-FCO40-3026-Hong-Kong-Garrison-future-of-the-Royal-Navy-presence-1990 — Page 136

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agreement in Mr Maude's telegram: it is not yet concluded and, given that it may involve a little slight of hand on Hong Kong's part to keep it away from LegCo, the less down on the paper the better. I

recommend we follow this advice we have only a limited locus

standi and do not want to queer our pitch with the MOD.

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J

Will Stern.

M V Stone

C

Before Mr Maude responds to the Governor's telegram, I think it would be prudent to ascertain whether the MOD's understanding of the present position is shared by the Hong Kong Government. At Mr McLaren's suggestion, therefore, I am sending a telegram to the Governor this afternoon seeking confirmation of the facts in paragraph 2 of Mr Stone's minute. Mr Maude could then send a personal message to the Governor once it is clear that we have really solved this problem.

Аврамс

EELAGV

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A R Paul