CONFIDENTIAL
SECRETARY OF STATE'S VISIT TO HONG KONG: 27-29 SEPTEMBER 1980
TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION
1.
UK Higher Education Fees: general concern in Hong Kong at
the increase in higher education fees for Hong Kong students in
the UK.
2.
New British Nationality Law: subject raises strong emotions
in Hong Kong although agreement over a separate category of
citizenship for Dependent Territories will have calmed some
fears. Publication of White Paper has given Hong Kong opportunity
to comment.
3. Multi Fibre Arrangement: control of Hong Kong's export of
textiles has generated strong reaction in the past. Preliminary
discussions on renegotiation of the Arrangement expected this
autumn.
4. Future of Hong Kong: discussion with the Governor of the
long-term future of Hong Kong and Chinese attitudes towards the
territory, including the practical problems arising soon from
expiry of New Territories Lease in 1997.
5.
Illegal Immigration from China: numbers are still very
high. Hong Kong Government's proposals to repatriate all illegal
immigrants (Operation Champion). Briefing by Governor on
current situation for Secretary of State's discussion in Peking.
6.
Defence Costs Agreement: the present agreement whereby
Hong Kong contribute 75% of the cost of the Garrison currently
under review. Mr Hayhoe will be in Hong Kong in October to
conclude the negotiations.
Hong Kong likely to be asked to
triple its contribution. The Services are at present primarily
deployed on anti-illegal immigration duties.
CONFIDENTIAL
17.