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arguments in terms of bilateral relations and Dependent Territory interests in favour of retention.
www.
In the case
of Endurance the symbolism is of course important primarily in the Falklands context the ship is perceived by the Argentines, Falkland Islanders and other countries as the embodiment of HMG's commitment to all our Dependent Territories in the South Atlantic (ie South Georgia, South Sandwich Islands and the BAT as well as the Falkland Islands). But just as important is the practical role of the ship both in supporting our claim to the BAT against competing claims by Argentina and Chile (both of whom demonstrate their presence through their armed forces) and in enabling the British Antarctic Survey to carry out scientific work in areas it could not otherwise reach.
4.
As for the Patrol Craft in Hong Kong, as I have explained in previous correspondence, I have no doubt that they continue to perform an important military and political function. Their premature withdrawal would send the wrong signals, both locally and to the Chinese,
I believe a way with potentially serious consequences.
must be found to resolve this issue with Hong Kong quickly. As I explained in my earlier minute, the Governor does not believe that solutions involving additional finance from Hong Kong would be acceptable on both financial and practical grounds. Moreover, it would carry the implication that there is no British but only a Hong Kong interest involved which is not the case.
5. I must therefore ask you to look again at the continued deployment of both HMS Endurance (or a replacement should that be necessary) and the patrol
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