PA
844-717
M112
0401
SECRET
Mr
Donald
ال
Sevetay of State
беления
し
1376
cc PS/Lord Belstead
Mr Giffard
Mr Elliott, FED
A
(186)
266
C
305
FUTURE OF HONG KONG: CALL BY THE RT HON EDWARD HEATH MP ON 30 JUNE AT 5.00 PM
1.
I attach a brief.
Background
FED agree.
2. In the course of a visit to China in early April, Mr Heath
had an important conversation about the future of Hong Kong with
Deng Xiaoping (Peking Telno 202). Mr Heath spoke briefly to
the Secretary of State about it on his return and it was agreed
that they would meet again when time permitted. In the meantime,
since the Chinese Ambassador in London was pressing Mr Heath for
a reaction, I have briefed Mr Heath's Private Secretary. More
recently, a Chinese Vice-Foreign Minister has asked HM Ambassador
in Peking whether we have any reactions (Peking Telno 306).
4. Mr Heath may take the line that Deng's remarks constitute
an important message to which a reply is required. I hope, however,
that, from what I told his Private Secretary last month, he will
realise already that given the sensitive and complex nature of
the subject and the fact that Ministers have been and are still
preoccupied with the Falklands crisis, it is not possible at
present to give a substantive reply to Deng's suggestions.
Moreover, even personal speculation by Mr Heath might be
regarded by the Chinese as an official response.
5. The Secretary of State will nonetheless wish to have a full and
frank discussion with Mr Heath, who knows China well and is highly
regarded and trusted there.
25 June 1982
"7
Дир
R D Clift
Hong Kong and General Department
SECRET