CONFIDENTIAL
5
13.
The third round with Hong Kong took place in mid-November, in preparation for the Council of Ministers Meeting on 22/23 November.
On this occasion Britain supported
the revised Commission proposal for flexibility inside the "global ceilings", using the reserve left over from other negotiations. This has eventually led to cut-backs of 7.6% for Hong Kong after the Council of Ministers authorised the Commission to negotiate with the "dominant" suppliers on the new basis. Britain's position, taking Hong Kong's interests into account within the limits available, was noted in the
British press. Governor a personal telegram about Britain's part in the negotiations (Annex D).
The Minister for Trade (Mr Rees) also sent the
Hong Kong and General Department
December 1982
CONFIDENTIAL