CONFIDENTIAL
STRICTLY PERSONAL
3.
Percy briefly mentioned on the same occasion his
plan to visit Hong Kong in the third week of May. I
enclose also a copy of my minute recording that. At the
time it seemed of relatively little moment here.
Ex-ambassadors often go back to the area where they served
wearing a commercial or some other hat. No talks were in
prospect with China. There was no suggestion of him
conveying any message from HMG (and I would guess he has
ruled out any such role for himself for the future by his
public criticism, of which I strongly disapprove). I do not remember my thought-process at the time but I suspect I assumed that we should hear more about the visit as May
approached (he pretty frequently gets in touch with the Office) and that that would be time enough to consider
whether anything more should be done about it.
At any rate the matter passed from my mind as quickly as from the minds of those to whom I copied my minute.
4.
I accept of course that things can look different
in Hong Kong from London (as you impressed on us when you
were here last) and that the fact that talks are now in
progress with the Chinese could put a different slant on
things. I believe that Alastair Goodlad discussed with
you the question of our briefing Percy Cradock before he
sets out. My personal view is that it is better to keep
him generally informed about the situation because he is
then less likely to upset things unwittingly. But if he
is briefed it will be essential to make it clear to him
that he is carrying no message from, and has no role to
play on behalf of HMG. I believe the Minister plans to
have another word with you about this.
CONFIDENTIAL
STRICTLY PERSONAL
/5.
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.