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attach a copy of his notes. As you will see, Mr Dewe Mathews put forward a number of options for CLP's consideration with a view to eventual discussion with GPC. However, three of the four options for discussion involved some form of commit- ment, either political or financial, by the Hong Kong Govern- ment. It is in this area that I would appreciate your views. I do of course understand that the Hong KongGovernment does not normally involve itself in this sort of financial support to private industry but it is possible that given the political significance of this project, they may decide to do so for broader reasons.
4 In this context, you may recall that there was a suggest- ion, when the concept of HKNIC was first raised, that HMG or public sector bodies such as UKAEA might take equity. There was a general consensus amongst officials that this would not be acceptable to Ministers. However, although reference was made to this issue in Sir Keith Joseph's letter to Lord
| Carrington of 19 December 1980, no actual submission was made
on the subject.
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I consider it would be appropriate if some form of dialogue could be started with the Hong Kong Government on this and I would appreciate your views on how this could best be arranged. It would also be interesting to know to what extent a decision of this nature would be for the Hong Kong Government itself, or whether it would be referred to the Foreign Office for advice. As you no doubt know John Bembridge is going to be in the UK for leave this Summer and will be coming in to see me for a talk around May 31 June 11. This might be a suitable occasion for a discussion. Alternatively, I could talk direct with Jack Cater.
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