§ 75. Mr. Rankinasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the recent disturbances in Hong Kong and on the steps now being taken to prevent their recurrence in association with the Government of the Colony.
§ Mrs. HartSince my statement in the House on the 1st June [Vol. 747, c. 266–274] the general pattern of Communist activities in Hong Kong has been the instigation of short stoppages of work and token strikes, chiefly in Government departments and public utilities. These have not caused any serious disruption of essential services.
The anti-Government propaganda campaign in the Communist Press and through the medium of inflammatory posters has continued. Steps are being taken to control the public display of posters.
225WThese activities by the local Communists and the Hong Kong Government's counter-measures have led to a few minor incidents, but the Hong Kong Government has the situation well under control.
The House is aware that although the present troubles had their origin in a genuine labour dispute, they were taken up and exploited for political ends. I cannot therefore say whether disturbances are likely to recur. But if they do, the Hong Kong Government will continue to take such measures as may be necessary to maintain peace, order and good government. In so doing they will continue to have the full support and assistance of Her Majesty's Government.