L
(N.B. The grading of this jacket must be the same as that of the highest grades! document contained in it. The appropriate upgrading slip must be offixed when ever necessai
SECRET
COMMONWEALTH
OFFICE
E. 1826
DEPT.NG KONG AND I MIDIAN "O"
TITLE: HONG KONG! INFORMATION AND!
PROPAGANDA ASPECTS:
DISTURBANCE 1967.
REFER TO
DEPT.
DATE DEPT.
REFER TO
NAME
2
REFER TO
DATE DEPT.
NAME
DATE
File No.
B13/22
PART
NAME
318
11⁄2
....
OPENED
LIILINJI PRINTE
EGUERY ADDRES
Room No. 3 ofTM "Curtis se
Curtis
DO NOT RETAIN FILES AND PAPERS UNNECESSARILY RETURN THEM TO REGISTRY FOR B.U. OR P.A.
<p> <span></span></p><!--more--><p></p>
FILE
CLOSED
1967 16266
FILE No.
PERM/B13/22
(N.B. The grading of this jacket must be the same as that of the highest graded document contained in it. The appropriate upgrading slip must be affixed when ever necessary.)
SECRET
Victoria Emb¬
41D
PART.
FOLIO NUMBERS OF TOP SECRET AND SECRET DOCUMENTS IN THIS JACKET
FORMER FILES
RELATED FILES
HWA1/17 - Hong Kong: Disturbances 1967
a споедин HWB 5/16 - Economic & Financial consequences of
Disturbances 1967
SECRET
SECRET
Category AC: no unclassified reply or reference
From: C in C FE
To:
MOD UK
Info:
CBF Hong Kong HQ Farelf
Me Carte.
0408092 July
Date: 4.7.67
Recd: 0955Z
4631
le
For HWIS 1/17.
ANG
5.7.47
1
1
1
:
1.
SEACOS 98
WARNING
PARAPHRASE NOT REQUIRED
NO UNCLASSIFIED REPLY OR REFERENCE
For CDS from C in C.
Subject is Psychological operations in Hong Kong.
Both Hong Kong Government and CBF have represented need for Psyops support in view of current situation which as you know they
Situation is turning into Psyops consider is likely to continue.
and propaganda battle in Hong Kong and Kowloon with both sides seeking to consolidate their own support among the urban population and to win over as many of the opposition as possible while in new territories a hearts and minds contest on classic lines seems to be developing.
2.
As temporary measure an therefore detaching my GSO 1 Psyops to CBF to plan and conduct appropriate military psyops measures and to advise and assist Hong Kong Government in preparation and execution
In longer term consider that their own psychological operations.
CBF will continue to need trained Psyops staff. Quickest way of achieving this would be retention on my staff of existing post of GSO 2 (liaison) to political warfare co-ordinator due to lapse in September 1967 on RHE of present incumbent and provision of relief whom I could detach permanently to Hong Kong.
Ho
ALI.
3. Most grateful for your help in securing speedy action on follow- ing points on which staff action is being initicted.
4.
a.
C.
Establishment approval of retention on my Staff of post of GS02 (L) to political warfare co-ordinator. Nomination of relief trained and if possible experienced in Psyops to succeed present incumbent in September 1967. Release of pounds 3000 from reserve community relations fund held by DFP for expenditure by CBF in hearts and minds projects. at his discretion within normal community relations guidelines.
My political adviser is also making separate approach to Foreign Office for provision of IRD trained cantonese speaker to work in conjunction with Pysops Staff Officer in Hong Kong in support either of Military or of Government Psyops and propaganda projects.
บ
6
All Dist............
JAP/128/13
RECEIVED IN ARES No. 63 - 5 JULIZO/
73
SECRET
0408092
DOC for circulation authorised at 1015/4th.
1
CYPHER/CAT.A. AND BY BAG
RESTRICTED
FOREIGN OFFICE AND COM.CNWEALTH OFFICE TO CERTAIN MISSIONS
BTTY
GUIDANCE NO. 154
21 JUNE, 1967.
RESTRICTED.
(IPG)
ADDRESSED TO CERTAIN MISSIONS TELEGRAM NO 154 GUIDANCE OF 21 JUNE.
HONG KONG.
SEE GUIDANCE NO 176 OF 18 MAY FOR AN EARLIER ACCOUNT OF EVENTS IN
LONG KONG AND CHINESE MOTIVES.
THE PRESENT SITUATION IN HONG KONG,
2. THE COMMUNISTS UNDOUBTEDLY LOST THE FIRST ROUND OF THEIR CONFRO-~ NTATION WITH THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT AND THERE IS EVIDENCE THAT THEIR LEADERSHIP IS IN SOME DISARRAY. THEY FAILED TO IN SUPPORT FROM THE CHINESE POPULATION OF HONG KONG WHO DEMONSTRATED CLEARLY THAT THEY PREFERRED CARRYING ON THEIR NORMAL BUSINESS ACTIVITIES TO TAKING PART IN POLITICALLY INSPIRED DEMONSTRATIONS. A PARTICUL- ARLY TELLING BLOW TO THE COMMUNISTS WAS THAT MANY NON-POLITICAL ORGANISATIONS IN HONG KONG (WHICH MIGHT HAVE BEEN EXPECTED TO REMAIN SILENT DURING THE DISTURBANCES) CAME OUT WITH STATEMENTS IN SUPPORT OF THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT.
3. FOR THE PAST TWO WEEKS THE COMMUNISTS HAVE SWITCHED FROM MASS DEMONSTRATIONS, INVOLVING SOME VIOLENCE, TO ORGANISING STOPPAGES, PARTICULARLY IN THE PUBLIC UTILITIES (TRANSPORT, GAS, ELECTRICITY ETC.), IN AN ATTEMPT TO DEMONSTRATE THEIR POWER AND MAINTAIN THE
MORALE OF THEIR OWN SUPPORTERS, SUCH ACTIVITIES HAVE SO FAR HAD
LITTLE MORE THAN A NUISANCE EFFECT. TO SUSTAIN THEM THEY HAVE RE-
SORTED INCREASINGLY TO INTIMIDATION OF THE LESS POLITICALLY COMMITTED WORKERS.
4. THE SUBVERSIVE PROPAGANDA CAMPAIGN IN THE COMMUNIST PRESS AND POSTERS CONTINUES. THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT IS TAKING FIRM ACTION TO COUNTER THE LATTER BUT, IN ORDER TO AVOID PROVOKING PEKING HAS
/ NOT
RESTRICTED
SENT TO HONG KONG AS COMMONWEALTH OFFICE (D.T.D.)
TELEGRAM NO.17
No.1274
=
RESTRICTED
F.O. AND C.0. TELEGRAM GUIDANCE NO. 154.
-2-
NOT SO FAR ACTED AGAINST THE PRESS. THE COMMUNISTS HAVE ALSO BEEN TRYING TO MAKE PUBLICITY OUT OF THE FIRST TWO DEATHS TO OCCUR IN- DIRECTLY AS A RESULT OF POLICE ACTIONS SINCE THE DISTURBANCES BEGAN. THE FACTS OF THE TWO CASES ARE AS FOLLOWS, ONE MAN DIED IN POLICE CUSTODY ON 9 JUNE, AFTER HE HAD BEEN ARRESTED AS A RING-LEADER OF DISTURBANCES IN A GOVERNMENT WORKSHOP IN KOWLOON ON 8 JUNE, DEATH.
WAS APPARENTLY CAUSED BY THE PUNCTURING OF HIS LUNG BY A FRACTURED RIB. THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF THIS MAN'S DEATH ARE BEING INVESTIGATED AND A REPORT PREPARED FOR THE CORONER. A SECOND MAN WAS FOUND DEAD IN A COAL BUNKER AT KOWLOON GAS WORKS ON 11 JUNE. IT IS BELIEVED THAT HE HAD HIDDEN TO AVOID RIOTERS OR THE POLICE AND LATER DIED
OF ASPHYXIA AFTER SOME COAL IN THE BUNKER HAD FALLEN ON HIM, COMM-
UNIST ATTEMPTS TO MAKE PROPAGANDA OUT OF THESE TWO CASES HAS HOW-
EVER BEEN HAMPERED BY THE FACT THAT THE OFFICIAL NEW CHINA NEWS
AGENCY HAD ON 23 MAY PUT OUT A SENSATIONALLY EXAGGERATED REPORT
THAT QUOTE AT LEAST 233 CHINESE COMPATRIOTS WERE KILLED OR SERIOUSLY
WOUNDED UNQUOTE IN HONG KONG ON THE PREVIOUS DAY. TWO DEATHS, ONE OF WHICH HAD ONLY A REMOTE CONNECTION WITH POLICE ACTION, LOOK TAME
BY COMPARISON. IT IS IN FACT A GREAT TRIBUTE TO THE RESTRAINT AND
ABILITY OF THE HONG KONG POLICE THAT THE ONLY FATAL CASUALTIES TO
OCCUR BEFORE THIS WAS THE ACCIDENTAL DEATH OF A BYSTANDER HIT ON THE HEAD BY A DEMONSTRATOR'S BRICK.
ATTITUDE OF THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT.
5. AN EDITORIAL IN THE OFFICIAL PARTY NEWSPAPER, QUOTE THE PEOPLE'S DAILY UNQUOTE ON 3 JUNE CALLED ON THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG TO MOBI- LIZE AGAINST QUOTE BRITISH IMPERIALIST PROVOCATIONS UNQUOTE, THE EDITORIAL PUT THE ONUS FOR THIS STRUGGLE ON THE WORKING CLASS IN
HONG KONG BUT SAID THAT THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG ARE QUOTE TO BE READY AT ANY TIME TO RESPOND TO THE CALL OF THE GREAT MOTHERLAND AND SMASH THE REACT: JNARY RULE OF BRITISH IMPERIALISTS UNQUOTE. THE TEXT OF THIS EDITORIAL SUGGESTED THAT PEKING WAS ADVOCATING A LONG- TERM CAMPAIGN AGAINST BRITISH RULE IN HONG KONG IN WHICH THE MOST IMMEDIATE TASK WAS TO FORM A QUOTE MASS BASE UNQUOTE ( 1.E. ACHIEVE SUFFICIENT POPULAR SUPPORT). IT LEFT OPEN THE QUESTION OF WHEN PEKING MIGHT ISSUE ITS QUOTE CALL UNQUOTE.
RESTRICTED
/ 6.
RESTRICTED
F.0. AND C.0. TELEGRAM GUIDANCE NO. 154.
-3-
5. ON 13 JUNE THE CHINESE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS ISSUED A SECOND STATEMENT ON THE HONG KONG SITUATION. THIS STATEMENT, WHICH
ARS TO BE IN RESPONSE TO REPORTS THAT TWO CHINESE HAD BEEN KILLED (SEE PARAGRAPH 4 ABOVE), LODGED QUOTE THE STRONGEST AND MOST EMPHATIC PROTEST WITH THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT UNQUOTE. THE LANGUAGE USED WAS EXTREMELY VIOLENT AND INCLUDED THE THREAT (USED REPEATEDLY OVER THE PAST TWO YEARS IN REFERENCE TO VIET NAM) THAT THE CHINESE COULD NOT QUOTE STAND IDLY BY UNQUOTE. DESPITE THIS, HOWEVER, THE STATE- MENT APPEARS TO REPRESENT A FURTHER STAGE IN THE PROPAGANDA OFFEN- SIVE AGAINST THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT RATHER THAN A DECISION BY THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT TO TAKE MORE DIRECT ACTION. THE ONLY ACTION TAKEN SINCE THEN WAS THE GIFT OF TEN MILLION HONG KONG DOLLARS BY THE CHINESE TRADE UNION FEDERATION TO THE HONG KONG STRUGGLE COMMITTEE INTENDED TO IMPROVE THEIR ABILITY TO CONTINUE A PROGRAMME OF INDUST- RIAL STOPPAGES AND HARASSMENT.
PROSPECTS IN HONG KONG.
•
7. THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT RETAINS CONTROL OF THE SITUATION. IF PEKING AND LOCAL COMMUNIST LEADERS HAVE INDEED DECIDED ON A LONG TERM AND FAIRLY LOW LEVEL CONFRONTATION IT SHOULD BE POSSIBLE TO
MAINTAIN THIS CONTROL WITHOUT TOO MUCH DIFFICULTY THE DANGER IS THAT LOCAL EXTREMISTS MAY UNDERTAKE MORE VIOLENT ACTION, WHICH IN PRESENT CIRCUMSTANCES IN CHINA WOULD ALMOST CERTAINLY BE BACKED BY PEKING. THE RESULTANT SPIRAL COULD THEN WELL COMMIT PEKING TO MORE
POSITIVE ACTION THAN THEY SEEM TO INTEND AT THE MOMENT.
8. ALL THE ABOVE MAY BE USED FREELY WITH RELIABLE CONTACTS WITH THE EXCEPTION OF PARAGRAPH 7 ABOVE, WHICH IS FOR YOUR OWN INFORMATION.
SOSFA/CROSEC
SENT 1720Z 21 JUNE.
BY TELEGRAPH:
BANGKOK
DJAKARTA
PHNOM PENH RANGOON
TOKYO
POLAD HONG KONG
SAIGON (PASS HANOI)
VIENTIANE TAMSUI
RAWALPINDI
COLOMBO
KUALA LUMPUR
MANILA
SEOUL
NEW DELHI
SINGAPORE
PEKING
POLAD SINGAPORE
[ALL PRIORITY]
FO/CO/WH. DISTRIBUTION
J.I.P.G.D.
44444
RESTRICTED
Mr. W.S. Carter
CONFIDENTIAL
Reference
Hop Fel 809
Hong Kong Department
H.631
Prisvinde The point,
for. discuss the
May we for. registration of
Ed (2829)
25.7.62.
there pp?
Re-assurance in Foreign Markets about
Hong Kong Exports to them
Please see Kr. Gaminara's minute attached to
Mr. Guest, of 9 June, and the papers enclosed with
it.
2.
Us
I can see no objection, should Hong Kong wishes
to, to asking British posts abroad to take any
action that they thought necessary to re-assure
importers there that business was going on as usual
in Hong Kong and that they could expect orders to
be met. But, surely this should be done in
consultation with the Hong Kong Government, and
not merely at the request of the Hong Kong
Association whose standing in anyway is unknown
to us in Commonwealth Trade Department. No doubt posts abroad have the appropriate "publicity media" (to use the words of the Hong Kong Association
letter) to put over whatever we agree with the
Hong Kong Government would be a suitable form of
words. In this connection there was, I believe,
some time ago some correspondence (I think the papers are with your department) about what British
posts abroad would do on behalf of Hong Kong's
exports it might be worth looking them up in
this connection.
Legeste
//4.
Camerara
(D.G.R. Bentliff)
June, 1967
HWB 18/22.
by an Intel
entered. (vv. 24/7
This has now been covered Guidance. Pp.
CONFIDENTIAL
Ppr. shad
and be
1
1.5 (2029)
Me Guest.
Reference..
LI
1A
ཡོན་
We spoke about the attacked and your
vswy
Kindly
said
you
would look
into
the
maiter.
I have
con sulled
the
news voom
are really
but I do not think they
Concerned.
2. A certain
amount of guisance
Las
already
been sent out
to our
Missions
abroad. Through
has been confined
sphere.
The Hong Kong Port, has
1.R.D
but this
J
Că
the political
representatives of
its own
in Lawson,
Brussels, Geneva &
(they
hav
rather
the need
ها
Washington
belatedly
Chose
to keep
awakened
we possentations
informed of the situation in пірожа
Hong
Cas
by to allay
Kong
that
they
no
their respective
busmens fears
centre
hair
there.
Kat Hong Kong
ben affected
I take the
3.
Gunsmite may
disturbancas
вн
the
attacked letter from
Hong Kong Association
io G a
the
request for
mom
positive
ac
Cian
by the trade sections
Brition
Messions about to disseminat
information assuring all concerned
in Hong Kong is
Над
that business
stile
as usual,
4
or a doru
that you
& Arm
વ
I should be obliged for any assistant
malter.
I should like to see
papers agam
this
مختصر
in
the
that
I can
let
M Goziden know what is happening.
HAKE
96
$7.
[
1
MINISTER OF STATE
MEMORANDUM
From PRIVATE SECRETARY
To
Mr. Gaminara
63286/768 AT65.
Hong Kong Association
The Minister of State has asked me to send you the
attached letter which she has received from Mr. Collar
of the Hong Kong Association. In regard to the
paragraph sidelined 'X', perhaps you would, in concert
with News Department, consider what sort of information
could be passed to British posts (Foreign Office and
Commonwealth Office) for dissemination,
Spire MV Guest броде ни
in E., G. & who is
back.
to ring
ANG
9.6.
67.
going
I
(C. H. Godden)
9 June, 1967.
會協商工英中港香
THE HONG KONG ASSOCIATION.
6/1
TELEPHONE
LONDON WALL 1160,
+
BROAD STREET HOUSE.
2440.
8
1567
54, OLD BROAD STREET,
TELEGRAPHIC ADDRESS
DOLMIR LONDON E.C.2
LONDON. E.C. 2.
HJC/OMR
Mrs. Judith Hart, M.P., Minister of State,
Commonwealth Affairs, Church House,
Great Smith Street, LONDON, S.W.1.
Dear Minister,
7th June, 1967
Thank you for so courteously receiving representatives of The Hong Kong Association on Friday last, June 2nd, and for your great interest in the affairs of the Colony. May I reaffirm our pleasure, which I am sure is shared by our friends in Hong Kong, with the content of your statement in the House on Thursday, June 1st, and your Answers to the Questions arising therefrom.
You asked that an Aide Memoire be sent to you regarding the effect of the disturbances on Hong Kong trade and on the need to take all possible steps for the restoration of confidence in its ability to fulfil its commercial obligations. This has relevance not only in this country, but also in all Hong Kong's overseas markets.
It is within the knowledge of our members that a number of orders which had been placed with Hong Kong have been cancelled, although we are unable to say what There this represents as a proportion of normal trade. has also been some cancellation of orders for United Kingdom exports. Most of Hong Kong's exports are consumer goods, and as such, a very large proportion of them are made against orders placed in accordance with seasonal demands. A consequence of this is that the orders will not
Mrs. Judith Hart, M.P.
2
7th June, 1967
be reinstated, and buyers will turn elsewhere for their requirements. It is therefore important that all possible be done to reassure buyers in Hong Kong's overseas markets, by ensuring that the true facts of the situation in the Colony are widely known and the disturbances placed in their proper perspective.
We suggested to you that the representatives of H.M.G. in overseas markets could make a most valuable contribution to this end by a positive dissemination of information through appropriate publicity media.
We will be most grateful for any help which you can give to this end.
I attach a copy of a letter which I have just received from the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce which you will find of interest in this context.
With again, many thanks,
Yours sincerely,
You
J. Collar
Enclos: 1
Ae--
KUNG
recent dig
+
KAIT
thu were being flow of hilly eclared in Hong Kong Commerce
י.
the most wearying fep affect nil they oncli
f by th
21
orts why b magt ve made I think that
-ry
phaly.
In fact, nothing of the port happined and, though there was lct of noise and dismution or traffie on one or two occasions 'budleeas 25 uocal'
very much ill: order of the day and I did not hoar of a single ship, or shipment of cargo that was held up because of the troubles.
We felt it -ssential to get this tru. picture across to as wide as possible an audience and I attach 20 copi: of the letter which our Chairman has sent to all Chamber's of Commerce and British com- mercial representatives on our overseas Annual Report mailing list, You may have one or two connections to whom you would care to pass
a copy.
We also felt it appropriate to do some quick positive trade promotion and I enclose three sheets of stickers which we have had printed. These have been made available to all members of the Chamber for use on their overseas letters and perhaps you might be able to use some of them for a few days,
We have other ideas on the boil and I will be letting you know about them (and sending you supplies) as they come along.
Jack Kili
J.B. Kite Secretary
H. J. Collar, Esq., C.B.E.,
The Hong Kong Association, Broad Street House,
54 Old Broad St..
London E. C.2.
maring
will
youn
be advising on Committer (MIC Am) about thin
written faffney
jayı
59-16
HONG KONG
GENERAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
CARLEI
CHAMICON"
WHEN REFLYING PLEASE QUOTE
BOX **2
uuml
TELEPHONES FEELINGS
29th May,
1967.
This picture of our magnificent harbour with the commercial heart of Hong Kong in the foreground and the industrial areas of the Kowloon peninsula beyond, was taken while the world was told of riots and dis- orders in this British Colony.
However, the majority of Hong Kong's four million people worked normally and will continue to do so.
We emphasize this as many exaggerated reports spread about the recent disturbances. These statements may have led some of our competitors into thinking the future might be easier for them. are sorry they will be disappointed.
We
Our business continues to grow as witnessed by the 23 per cent rise in Hong Kong overall trade for the first four months of this year. We anticipate growth will be maintained.
It pays to trade with Hong Kong.
We know you agree.
Bücher Track
Chairman
|
Lukke john-Cost
IRD.
SECRET
Mr Caster.
Sir A. Galsworthy
HONG KONG
Mr. Hall
You do not seem to have
seaned
a copy of the.
wall 5/
2
It seems to me that Seacos 98, which you have no doubt seen, is an excellent illustration of the Bort of thing we were talking about at Sir Saville Garner's meeting yesterday. This says in paragraph 1 that "the situation is turning into a psyops and propaganda battle in Hong Kong and Kowloon
I have no doubt that this is right and, subject to Hr. Peck's views, I would agree with the request in paragraph ↳ for help in providing an I.R.D. trained Cantonese speaker.
2.
But it seems to me that if this kind of payops and propaganda activity is to be undertaken seriously those of us in Whitehall who are concerned with Hong Kong should know a good deal more about what is actually going on: in fact you may think it for consideration whether a general overall directive covering this sort of operation should not be issued, or at least cleared, here. I suggest that this might be done by those who were at yesterday's meeting (excluding the two Permanent Under-Secretaries).
Copies to: Mr. Hall, 0.0.
Mr. Peok
Mr. Ewart-Biggs (2 copies) Mr. Bolland
SECRET
(A.J. de la Mare)
5 July, 1967
NOTHING TO BE WRITTEN IN THIS MARGIN
Registry B. DRAFT
No.
SECURITY CLASSIFICATION
nn
Top Secret- Secret.
Confidential.
Restricted.
Unclassified.
PRIVACY MARKING
DRAFT Telegram.
To:-
2.
DAG
Hang Trong.
PRIORITY
loc have
No. 1373
HK380
Šut
Hong Kong
Type 1 +
From
1
Telephone No. & Ext.
REGGIVED
63847047
In
Pimped asTou5Z AG
171678 2252 Z hus. Maur
CINCFE telegram SEACOS 98
seew CINCFE
to Ministing of Defence about
psychological operations in Hong Kong.
We shall doubtless be asked for
Bur
views
these proposals and
but before expressing any opinion ware
shell need to
know
eivcumstances which
60
DISTRIBUTION
Copy to
HK WID C
IGD
MV Wilson - FO.
have caused you
assistance of
to seek militting
This natin and deguse of
it.
3.
Ae
importance you
We shald
altach
to oblaring
also
be grateful
you
(F.E.D) for brief outline of yout
psychological
operations programme and of manner
продатите
Mr de la Name? EO
Mr. Borland (FED)
milicery
which any
Mr. Littlejohn-Cook For which
Mr J.H. Peck
Issue
Fo.-
2
5.7.47. 177
11. [want-Biggs Fo.
Col. I. Wild MOD.
essestana coví
We assume
fit in with that-progamme-
you
ar
satisfied that cast protocopation
& mitittoy
conduct of
militang
would not
operations of this nature
gior wise to difficulties in present
ewaumstances?
(YLE) 'PA
Cypher
SECRET
OUTWARD TELEGRAM
FROM THE COMMONWEALTH OFFICE
(The Secretary of State)
TO HONG KONG (0.A.G.)
HWB 1/27 22
PRIORITY SECRET No. 1373
Sent 5 July, 1967. 2252Z
We have seen CINCFE telegram SEACOS No. 98 to Ministry of Defence about psychological operations in Hong Kong.
2. We shall doubtless be asked for our views on these proposals but before expressing any opinion we shall need to know circumstances which have caused you to seek military assistance of this nature and degree of importance you attach to obtaining it.
3. We should also be grateful for brief outline of your own psychological operations programme and of manner in which
We any military assistance would fit in with that programme. assume you are satisfied that conduct of military operations of this nature would not give rise to difficulties in present circumstances?
Copies also sent to:-
Distribution
H.K. WID 'C' I.G.D.
Foreign Office (F.E.D.)
11
T
(F.E.D.)
Mr. Bolland
19
tt
11
1!
It
Ministry of Defence
Mr.
Wilson
Mr. de la Mare
Mr. Littlejohn-Cook
Mr. J.H. Peck
Mr. Ewart-Biggs Col. J. Wild
بیما
15.7.67
ANG.
66/7
SECRET
?
SECRET
INWARD TELEGRAM
TO THE COMMONWEALTH OFFICE
(The Secretary of State)
FROM HONG KONG (O.A.G.)
-TATION
JUL
Cypher
D. 11 July 1967 R. 11
0750Z
4
IMMEDIATE SECRET
No.1004
Your telegram No.1 373.
Psyops.
RECEIVED IN
ARCHIVES No. 63
11 JUL.TO/
HWA 1/22 11/22
A major aspect of the current conflict here is the maintenance of confidence in and support for the government by the local population. Our assessment is that we are in for a long haul and that Communist pressure is unlikely to be relaxed.
2. So far we have substantially succeeded in exposing the barrenness of Communist claims and keeping the population at large calm. The majority of our publicity has been achieved by defensive measures, i.e. blocking the initiatives of the other side.
30 In early May, a publicity committee was set up under the chairmanship of the Deputy Colonial Secretary to meet daily, act as a forum of ideas and to give direction to positive publicity. Propaganda material has been disseminated through the press, radio and leaflets by a small publicity unit composed of officers from Government Information Services, Radio Hong Kong and liaison staff of the Secretariat for Chinese Affairs. Most of the material put out has been attributable, though by special means, unattributable articles have been issued. Also there have been occasional emissions of covert propaganda put out by members of the emergency intelligence working group (a sub-committee of the L.I.C. chaired by the Political Adviser) which meets as often as is necessary to assess information from ordinary and sensitive sources, All the present circumstances now suggest that the opportunity should be taken not only to intensify present propaganda operations but also to embark where we can on splitting and discouraging the local Communists.
4. In these circumstances, I welcomed the suggestion of the Services that the possibility of attaching an officer with psychological operations experience to C.B.F.'s staff should be explored. If it were approved, the idea would be for him to work directly with our propaganda machine as a member of the publicity committee and emergency intelligence working group. No separate military operations of this nature are contemplated. The officer concerned would be contributing his advice and experience in a civilian role and at the same time be a link between civil and military in these matters. C.B.F. and I both feel that there are definite advantages to be gained from this proposal.
(Passed to D.S.A.0. as advance copies for Commonweal th
Secretary, Far Eastern Dept., Foreign Office, and
Mr. Glover, News Department)
SECRET
/Distribution
SECRET
Distribution
-
H.K. W.I.D. 'C'
- I.G.D.
Copies also sent to:
Foreign Office (F.E.D.)
===
IT
(F.E.D.)
帽
It
Ministry of Defence
-
-
-
Mr. Wilson
Mr. de la Mare
Mr. Bolland
Mr. Littlejohn-Cook Mr. J.H. Peck Mr. Ewart-Biggs Col. J. Wild
SECRET
5
+
Sir Arthur Galsworthy
You are calling an Under-Secretaries' meeting for tomorrow afternoon and one of the items will be SEACOS telegram No.98 at (1).
2. We sought Hong Kong's views at (3) and we have now had their reply (at (4)) which outlines the Government's broad psychological operations programme and indicates how this military assistance would fit in. This exchange of telegrams has been copied to all concerned, with the possible exception of Mr. F. Cooper (M.O.D.) who is to be invited to attend the next meeting. I am making arrangements for copies to be sent to him.
3. Mr. Rivett-Carnao of Joint Information Policy and Guidance Department is going to Hong Kong on a short term
He assignment to help the Information Services Department. will be leaving for Hong Kong within the next fortnight. He is, I understand, something of an expert in this psychological field. The head of this department (Mr. Little- john Cook) has declared to me his interest in this subject and I suggest therefore that you might consider asking the Under-Secretary concerned (Mr. C.E. King), Mr. Littlejohn Cook and Mr. Rivett-Carnac to tomorrow's meeting.
6.5. Carter
S
(W.S. Carter)
11.7.67.
at Sw A. Goudsworthy's
9
have awanged,
requed for Mo. Lattlejohn Cook - Ar. Revelt-
n..
Carnac to attend the meeting.
Санас
"/7
COFO 011
SA
FOLLOWING IS HONG KONG TEL OF 11/7 TO PRIORITY C ́O NO. 1359 NOW PASSED TO YOU FOR ADVANCE COPIES TO MESSRS DENSON, BOLLAND DE LA MARE, WILSON, AND GLOVER NEWS DEPT. DOWNING ST. ALSO FOR PRIVATE OFFICE COMMONWEALTH SECRETARY
CONFIDENTIAL
ADDRESSED C O 1009 REPEATED PEKING 406
FOR CARTER FROM WILFORD.
WATER SUPPLIES.
AT A MEETING ON 5 JULY IT WAS AGREED TO ASK YOU TO CONSIDER THE OF AN APPROACH THROUGH CHARGE D'AFFAIRES, PEKING TO THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT IN THE HOPE THAT THEY MIGHT STIMULATE KWANGTUNG PROVINCIAL AUTHORITIES TO REACT TO HONG KONG'S REQUEST FOR A SUPPLY OF WATER IN JULY. IN THE PRESS OF EVENTS OVER THIS WEEKEND THIS MATTER WAS OVERLOOKED.
2. IN THE LIGHT OF EVENTS AT SHATAU KOK THIS DOES NOT SEEM THE RIGHT MOMENT TO MAKE SUCH AN APPROACH SEMICOLON UNFORTUNATELY THE PRESS HERE ARE AWARE OF THE ORIGINAL DECISION TO APPROACH YOU AND MAY ASK QUESTIONS IN LONDON. IF THEY DO, I HOPE THAT YOU CAN SAY THAT THE MATTER IS UNDER CONSIDERATION IN THE LIGHT OF HONG KONG GOVERNMENT'S VIEWS, BUT THAT THE TIME DOES NOT SEEM PROPITIOUS JUST AT PRESENT.
SENT 111041Z HEE
RECD 111941 Z TWB.
Eneque
Caul
で
Mr. de la Mare
j
SECRET
SA
I attach a brief record of this morning's
meeting of the Under-Secretaries' Committee on
Hong Kong. I submit a draft telegram to Peking
about water supplies.
Tel to inve
(L. Bolland) 12 July, 1967
M Peck to see recad.
Am
1217
SECRET
I
SECRET
/5B
HONG KONG
Meeting of Committee of Under-Secretaries on
12 July in Commonwealth Office
The meeting began with Mr. Elliott, Politicial Adviser, Hong Kong, giving his views on the situation in Hong Kong up to last Sunday.
2. He said that his impression was that things were at that time going quite well and there was certainly no need to panic. The local Communists had taken various initiatives, e.g. an attempt to call a general strike and to interrupt supplies of food, but each one had been effectively blocked. 3. The result was that the local Communists were feeling very frustrated. They were aware that they were being given
The P.L.A. was not only limited support from the mainland. going to be used to help them and they appeared to realise that they must rely on their own forces to achieve their aims.
4. Mr. Elliott thought that confidence among the local Chinese remained high.
5.
However, Mr. Elliott said that this was now three days ago and since then there have been various developments reported in Hong Kong telegram No. 1012 which had just arrived. It was clear that the situation was not quietening
down.
The Communists seemed to be adopting tip and run tactics. In these circumstances the Hong Kong Government must take firm action if they were going to retain control of the situation. There had been good evidence in the past that the local Communist leaders had been holding back from using violent measures. But it seemed that they were now prepared increas~ ingly to support the middle rank of leaders in using violence. 6. The meeting then turned to considering various measures. The following were discussed:
SECRET
/(a)
SECRET
- 2
(a) Government assurances about Hong Kong
Sir A. Galsworthy said that they were under strong pressure from the Hong Kong Association to put out some statement that we intended to remain in Hong Kong until 1967 and beyond. It was agreed that we should resist this pressure. It was, however, also thought that we should make it quite clear that H.M.G. intended to discharge our responsibilities and maintain our authority in the Colony. More specifically, on Mr. Royle, M.P.'s motion which had been placed on the Order Paper today, it was decided that the best way to deal with this was to avoid a debate but, if it was reached, to
make some short statement that this motion expressed the feelings of the House.
(b) Information
(1) It was agreed that Mr. Peck should co-ordinate activities in Whitehall in this field and that Mr. Colin Wilson of I.R.D. would act as a central point. Mr. Peck would call a meeting early next week of the information and political departments to decide on what action to take.
(11) In the discussion, it was suggested that we should put out information to support, inter alia, the following
lines:
The chaotic state of China;
The way in which the local Communists in Hong Kong were misinforming Peking about the real situation in the Colony;
The need to remove any impression in Hong Kong's foreign markets that Hong Kong could not fulfil her contracts; and
To encourage the Overseas Chinese to express their support for Hong Kong in order to sustain the morale of the local Chinese.
/(c)
SECRET
f
f
SECRET
- 3-
(c) Water
It was agreed that the Commonwealth Office should obtain as soon as possible a survey of the position in Hong Kong; that they should discuss with the Crown Agents ways and means of supplying water to Hong Kong from other sources (including possibly using dracones); and that the Foreign Office should invite Mr. Hopson's comments on Hong Kong telegram No. 1009 about Peking's likely reactions to an approach to the Chinese Government to supply water to the Colony. When we had received Hong Kong's report, we would decide whether we should approach other countries, e.g. the Philippines, Korea, Japan and Formosa to see whether they could and would be willing to provide water.
SECRET
MOD SIGNAECREAGE FORM
W
Instructions on completing this form are in Office Instructions-MOD Manual 2
SKEERDEMES IAPULCINEDARE FANEYGROU eren ESSAGE INSTRUCTIONS
PRECEDENCE--ACTION
ROUTINE
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ROUTINE
121130
FOR COMMCEN USE
FROM MOD UK
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12.33
OPERATOR 23
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SECURITY CLASSIFICATION *(Messages referring to a classi- fled message must be classified Restricted or above)
COPIES
INFO
125
DESPATCH
TIME
OPERATOR
SECRET
CBF HONG KONG
DIG
-SERIAL No. (Inserted by COMMCEN)
RTT
CHECK
COSSEA
65
From Chief of the Defence Staff
(12)
Reference: A.
1.
OL.0809Z/SBACOS 98.
Your requests at paras 3a and 3c of Reference A have been
approved. As regards paragraph 33. action is being taken to
provide a suitable relief.
DISTRIBUTION (To include originator)
TLL
refers to a classified message
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ol
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1
does not refer to a classified message
Pages
FILE NUMBER
DRAFTER'S NAME
IN BLOCK J.M.D. SUTTON
LETTERS
DIV./DIR./BRANCH COSSEC
Main 6285
Recal
TELEPHONE
NUMBER
BUILDING: EXTENSION:
RELEASING
OFFICER'S
SIGNATURE
DATE
NAME IN
BLOCK LETTERS
J.H. GIBBON
12.7.67
RANK
Note: Messages comprising five or more pages must be collated
MAJOR-GENERAL
B & S Led $1-4333
SECRET
CONFIDENTIAL
Jole c
[ ]
General Thomes
Anti-China:
FROIAGANDA THEMES ON HONG KONG
a) Chaos and violence inside China with the emphasis on developments affecting Hong Kong, e.g..
(i) Extremist influences in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and differences of opinion between the leadership on Foreign policy matters.
(ii) Impact of the cultural revolution in
Awangtung Province as it affects provincial control of extremists and the provincicl authorities links with Hong Kong.
(iii) Damaging effect of the cultural revolution
on the Chinese economy, particularly exports thus increasing China's dependance on Hong Kong market for foreign exchange.
b) China's chauvinistic policy towards its neighbours in South East Asia and elsewhere in the world. Emphasis should be placed on the fact that it is not an "anti-colonial" struggle but one of a series of foreign diversions organised for internal reasons. Attention should be drawn to the provocative activities of Chinese missions abroad in promoting a cult of Lao Tse-tung and the cultural revolution which has led to numerous incidents and in some cases a deterioration of relations with certain countries c.g. Nepal, Burma, Cambodia, Singapore, Mongolia, North Korea and North Viet-Nen.
Pro-Hong Kong
a) Factual information on the Hong Kong Governments firm handling of the situation.
b) The stability of the Hong Kong economy as reflected in exports, the movement of capital, prospects for the develoment of trade and expressions of confidence by the Hong Kong business community, (particularly the Chinese community).
c) Information on the Hong Kong government's social and economic policies e.g. schools, resettlement, housing, labour legislation.
Overseas Chinese Themes
•)
Manipulation of overseas Chinese communities abroad by Chinese diplomats and other agencies on behalf of Maoist policies which has antagonised the indigenous population, eft the oversens chinese to face the music and with the leking government in no position and unwilling to protect then e.g. Indonesia, Burma and Hong Kong.
1?
b) Publicity for overseas Chinese comment in support of the Hong Kong Government or critical of the activities of communists in Hong Kong.
CONFIDENTIAL
(c)
The
COFIDENTIAL
c)
The harsh treatment suffered by overseas Chinese and their relatives in the course of the cultural revolution.
a) Attacks upon Chinese traditional culture by Red Guard groups in China.
e) Information on the decline in Mainland education facilities and on aoist education policies i.e. "Red not expert".
New policies towards China's "capitalists" and Mao's disincentive economy".
Hong Kong Themes
a) Ixploitation of differences between the Hong Kong militants, the Teking Government and the Kwangtung
authorities.
b) Ixploitation of differences between the militants and conservatives in Hong Kong.
c) Exposure of personal bockgrounds of Chinese communist leadership in Hong Kong.
a) Support for the Hong Kong government from the local community.
e) Information on "Viet-Cong" activities of Communiste supported by photographs of private arsenals.
CONFIDENTIAL
WORKING CROU ON HONGKONG IN DIE UK.
F.
•
THIS IS A COPY
THE ORIGINA! HAS BEEN OFTAINED
IN THE DE
ECTION
3 (4) OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS ACT 1958
SECRET.
I
Hongkong W.Indies Dert :0.0.
1
I Nin. of Defence
TARGETS:
1. Neighbouring countries
(Fro and anti) in S.E.Asia. 2. Overseas Chinese in. S.E.
Asia.
3. Other countries of comm-
ercial importance to
Hongkong.
4. Press and Eusiness
Community in the U.K. 5. broly Commmweclit & fondly
Garri
J.R.D.
Publications:
Note:
I D.
I.R.D.
1.R.D.j Field Officers
U.K. Fress & other
I & E'
Channels. Channels.
I = Information Froducing departments. E = Informaton Executive departments,
WORKING
GROUF
E.
L
J.I.I.G.D. C.0.1.
}
: News
Depts.
E
Hongkong
Gov.i
Information
office in London.
Press and
Commercial contacts.
British and Foreign Correspondents.
Radio T.V.
Publications.
B.I.S. Hachinery.
SECRET.
360
Home +Our P
FUBLICITY ARRANGEMENTS IN HONGKONG.
1
ergency Intelligence
Committee
Chairman:
Folitical Advisor.
Special
Unit
SECRET.
Hong Kong Government
H.K. Government
Information Services
I.R.D.
Regional Information
office.
Hongkong Fress and Foreign Correspondents.
Fress
and other Contacts in Hongkong
Mailing lists in S.. Asia end other countries.
Responsibility: Unattributable and deniable
Information.
Composition: olitical Advisors Office
Verious Channels.
F.K. Special Branch
THIS IS A COPY
THE COONAL HAS DEEN BETA MED
■ (4) OF THE ukimkum Bh
SECRET.
TARGETS.
1. Chinese Communists in Hong Kong. 2. Chinese Non-Communists in Hong Kong. 3. Business Community in Hong Kong. 4. Youth in Hong Kong.
1
SECRET
At a meeting of the Hong Kong Group under Sir Arthur lsworthy's chairmanship, which was held on July 12, it was agreed that an information unit should be set up under my chairmanship to co-ordinate all aspects of information work designed to strengthen the position of the Hong Kong Government in its present difficulties. It was left to me to organise the composition and activities of this unit, which will report to Sir Arthur Galsworthy although this arrangement does not prejudice the submission of reports within the Foreign Office.
2. I should like to hold the first meeting in the Conference Room on the 8th floor of Riverwalk Houso at 3.30 p.m. on Monday 17 July.
3.
I invite the following to attend:-
Mr. J.B. Denson, Far Eastern Department.
Mr. A.W. Gaminara, Hong Kong and West Indian
Department.
Mr. G.S. Littlejohn-Cook, J.I.P.G.D.
Col. Wilde, Ministry of Defence.
Mr. C. Wilson, I.R.D.
ويا
A representative of News Department.
I proposo for the first mooting the following agonda:-
i)
A statement of the problem, 1.0. the definition
of our terms of reference;
11)
A statement and review of the oxisting structuro and chains of command;
111)
A preliminary discussion of targets and thomes and the modia appropriate for oach.
5.
For tho time boing I.R.D. will provide the socrotary for the mooting.
THIS IS A COPY
THE ORIGINAL HAS BEEN DETAINED
*** DEPARTM*
LA SECON
3 (4) OF THE PULUS RECORDS ACT 1958
(J. H. Pock) 14 July, 1967.
SECRET
низа
7
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a new file:-
Se scumberers -1967, information
Gudh
propagande aspects..
and register the attacked or
AE
17.767.
RECEIVED IN
ARCHIVES No. 63
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HWA 13
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26.7.67
18.7.67
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