We have a tendency to equate things in terms of what we understand so we equate the motives and actions of the Chinese in terms of Western thinking. But there is a major difference in not only the way we think but in our forms of Government. Western Governments are responsive to human desires whereas the dominant concept ruled by Committee based on the precepts of communism is not responsible to the populace, only to themselves and one central ideal. Faces and names change but the ideal goes on. There have been policy shifts which we’ve tried to analyse in terms of Western thinking but these policy shifts are really still within the basic framework. The Chinese, like many in Asia, have never known democracy and they may not want our type of democracy. They are determined to work out their own destiny without interference from us.

I believe the Chinese do see themselves united under one flag. They want to hold and to develop their own vast homeland. They also see themselves as the core of a new and better world order by keeping things on an even keel.

What of a new strong China is she going to be the new disturber of the peace, will China attempt to infiltrate other countries with her economic and social philosophy? Obviously, it is difficult to answer such questions. This much however I do know - they are conscious now of their own potential strength and that such a force, such a power, such a people cannot be ignored. They will be a force to be dealt with and we cannot afford to be complacent - we should continually review their true ambitions and capabilities and their growing aspirations. We need to learn all we can about them as they will need to learn about us. There will be a lot of tough problems ahead. We should aim for co-operative effort for peace and economic security. We cannot afford to perform in terms of old power politics. There will be no peace, no economic stability unless we work together with China.