f
146.
The Prime Minetor gave a clear BaBurança that in conducting the talka she would speak not only for Britain but for Hong Kong. EMG's commitment to the territory has nevor been in doubt, but the Primo Miniater'* forthright reaffirmation of it could not have been more timely, Nor is there any doubt that in the search for a solution RMG will take the viewa and wishes
and wishes of the people of Hong Kong fully into account. The process of consultation has already begun. An important stage in it was the visit to London by the group of Members of the Executive and Logislative ·Councils who accompanied
there at the beginning of Septenber. The process will be a continuous one and careful consideration will Dow be givan to how thia consultative process can best be
pursued.
де
147.
Meetings in Peking to follow up Mre Thatcher's vicit have begun. The content of the talko must necessarily romain confidential. The aim will be to complete them 36 soon 43 posuible. I cannot make any useful forecast as to when that
when will be. There are complex issues to be discussed, and there are differences between the
Dides which must be reconciled. So steady norvos will
will be needed in
ba
the monthe
ahead.
two
to
But the Prime Minister has made plain hor belief that, given the common objective,
common objective, the differences can be reconciled and an agreement can be reached, which will be acceptable to China and Britain and which will be welcomed by the people of Hong rong, I sharo that belief.
148.
Honourable Monbors WO have છે statement Of Common objective from the British and Chinoce Governments. We have the commitment to this territory of the Government of the UK. In the light of that common objective, and that commitment shall go forward with confidence to pursue our policies and programmes to their conclusion and to project them into the future.
We
/(9)
CONCLUSION