UNITED KINGDOM CONTROL OF HONG KONG'S TRADING POLICIES
It has been accepted that in the conduct of its external
commercial relations, the Hong Kong Government must act in the
best interests of the local population. In doing so, however,
it keeps in close consultation with Her Majesty's Government.
FUTURE OF HONG KONG AND CHINESE ATTITUDE
THE FUTURE OF HONG KONG
Her Majesty's Government has every confidence in the continuing
development of Hong Kong and will continue to administer it in the
interests of those who have chosen to live there.
THE END OF THE NEW TERRITORIES LEASE IN 1997
1997 is still quite a long way ahead and a great deal will
have happened by then not only in the area but in other parts of
the world as well. It is not possible to predict what the
circumstances will be so far in the future.
CHINESE ATTITUDE TO HONG KONG
It is apparent that the Chinese Government do not wish to
disturb the present situation.
SINO
STATE OF SINO-BRITISH RELATIONS OVER HONG KONG
Sino-British relations are good. There is practical cooperation
on Hong Kong over a wide variety of fields. (If pressed) Her
Majesty's Government see no reason why Hong Kong should become
an issue between ourselves and the Chinese Government.
OTHER MATTERS
THE POLICY OF RETURNING ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS TO CHINA
The position remains as indicated in the reply I gave on
21 January 1975. (If pressed) Her Majesty's Government is satisfied
that the policy of refusing entry to illegal immigrants from China
is heing carried out by the Hong Kong authorities in a humane
manner
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/REASONS