TNAG-2769-FCO40-3986-Hong-Kong-and-the-media-interviews--press-briefings-and-the--1994 — Page 160

CONFIDENTIAL

073707 MDADAN 7079

As far as Hong Kong is concerned, it has always been the practice of both the British and the Hong Kong Governments not to make any comments on intelligence matters relating to Hong Kong.

But I would say this. In Hong Kong we have a Bill of Rights and we have other laws protecting the rights of citizens. These are laws to which everyone in the Territory is subject. Any activities in breach of the Bill of Rights or of any other Legislation are · and will continue to be dealt with vigorously

and in accordance with the law.

DOES M16 OPERATE IN HONG KONG?

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I have said and as many of my distinguished predecessors have said before me, it is not the practice of this Government, nor of the British Government, to comment on intelligence matters. I don't propose to break this time honoured tradition today.

ANY TRUTH IN STATEMENTS REPORTED ON RTHK THIS MORNING ABOUT

INFILTRATION OF HONG KONG COMPANIES BY BRITISH SPIES?

I cannot comment on a report which I have not yet seen. I can only repeat that everyone in Hong Kong must be subject to the law.

UNQUOTE

6.

Grateful for further background and advice on Line to take by 230030z please.

PATTEN

YYYY

ADVANCE

4

MR MASEFIELD. MR ALSTON

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DISTRIBUTION

HKD //HD

NEWS D//HD

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