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5. Where the return visit was concerned, Sir Sigmund said he was at something of a loss to know how it could best be organised. He was happy for the International Council of Christians and Jews to act as host, and he could set up a number of meetings and social occasions through his own personal contacts. But the Council was not equipped ato handle the logistics of a four-man visit, and had few financial resources.
6. I suggested (mindful of the letter from Lord Howe's office which you have seen) that the Great Britain-China Centre might be able to play a role. I explained its functions and said that while I could not speak for the Centre, I would be happy to put him in touch with its Director. It might be possible to visualise joint sponsorship of the visit. Sir Sigmund was attracted by the idea and encouraged me to explore the possibilities with the Centre. I said I would make the first contact: thereafter it would be best if HMG distanced itself from the planning. His position with the Chinese authorities would be more favourable if it was seen that he was operating through non-governmental channels.
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7. I propose therefore to have a word with Ms McBean. I shall also reply to the letter from Lord Howe's PA. I shall explain that Sir Sigmund is in contact with a different organisation from the People's Institute for Foreign Affairs (PIFA), which acted as host to Lord Howe's mission: he is not therefore complicating our links with the PIFA. I shall also mention that I have explained to Sir Sigmund what role the Great Britain-China Centre plays, and undertaken to put him in touch with the Centre.
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