TNAG-2755-FCO40-3972-Banking-situation-in-Hong-Kong-1993 — Page 77

SECRET ORIEL

SECRET

ORIEL

FM FCO

TO PRIORITY HONG KONG TELNO 738

HKB 102/3 Mrwhite

AUG 1993

OF 041719Z AUG 93

Pl.

ORIEL

5/4 من

て

132207

MDLOAN 8945

STRICTLY PERSONAL FOR ACTING POLITICAL ADVISER FROM HUM, AUSS YOUR TELNO 1149: HONGKONG BANK

1.

The department have conducted an extensive search through the files, but can find no documentary evidence relevant to Xu Jiatun's claim.

2.

However it strikes a faint chord in my memory. I believe that in 1986 (not early 1984) when I was Head of Hong Kong Department Dr Kissinger may have been used very informally to take soundings among the Chinese Leadership about the proposed merger between the Hongkong Bank and the Midland Bank. If I remember rightly, the FCO had no knowledge of the commission given to Kissinger until some time after the event.

3.

I take it that any interest in the story has subsided by now. I am sure that you would be right, if questioned, to refrain from comment. In the circumstances, I think it would be better if you did not/not mention my recollection to Purves.

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