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W76A.
QUESTIONS LIKELY TO ARISE AT MR LUCE'S PRESS CONFERENCE IN HONG KONG
ON 28 SEPTEMBER 1983
FUTURE OF HONG KONG
Talks
Talks in Peking through diplomatic channels have been taking place at intervals since the Prime Minister's visit to China a year ago.
A second more detailed phase began in July. The latest session was
held on 22/23 September.
Timetable for talks ↑
I cannot make any useful forecast of how long the talks will take.
The issues are complex. It is more important to find the right
solution than to rush matters unduly.
Progress Reports on Talks
For reasons that will be obvious to you the contents of the talks
must necessarily remain confidential. That the the talks are taking
place in a good atmosphere and covering much detailed ground is in
itself very encouraging. Do not mistake lack of bulletins for
inaction.
Ministers' participation in the Talks/Why are you not going to
China?
The British negotiating team is led by our Ambassador in Peking, Sir
P Cradock. They are doing a first class job and we have every
confidence in them. There are no plans for the Secretary of State
or for me to join the talks.
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