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CODE 18-77
HICK
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027120
RELIVED IN RESIS MNO. Priest
- Mr Ai Ft5 OCT 1993
cc Mr Hum PA
RI
Tuko
Mr Morris (sep copies) Mr Hoare
1 DCMT
Retro
HKK 027/20
Mr. Williams Mr. Rallian Michift
Minute The Grateful if you wortel add a
note on the reachin, in
in Hay Koy
* Pely to the visit and Press Conferences
MR LUCE'S PRESS CONFERENCE IN HONG KONG: 28 SEPTEMBER 1983
1.
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You asked for comment on Mr Luce's statement to the press on 28 September and on the question and answer session which followed.
2.
Mr Luce's statement repeated the essence of our telno 961 with some modifications (see Hong Kong telno 1421). He made particularly helpful remarks about:
(a) British Ministers fully understanding Hong Kong's anxiety
about its future.
(b) The need to retain the mutual trust existing between the
British Government and the people of Hong Kong, whom we would continue to consult.
(c) HMG's commitment to do its best for the people of Hong Kong within the context of our objective of a solution acceptable to Britain, China and the people of Hong Kong.
(d) HMG's determination to try to build even further on the
success that has traditionally characterised Hong Kong.
(e) The need to realise that a difficult path lies ahead.
(f) The realisation that although some degree of turbulence
would doubtless accompany our quest to find a
satisfactory settlement, Hong Kong "people 'have it in them to weather the storm'.
(g) The need for confidentiality in the talks and the unhelpful
nature of 'megaphone diplomacy', practised, sadly, by the Chinese.
3. The question and answer session pointed up nothing out of line. The following gives the essence of the views which Mr Luce expressed on the diverse subjects raised with him:
(a) Unanimity of Hong Kong opinion on the Future
The common element revealed in discussions with a wide ranging body of opinion was the desire to maintain Hong Kong's existing freedoms and stability.
(b) Desire of Hong Kong people to see British administration
continue beyond 1997
Hong Kong people's basic concern is the continuation and continuing construction of a stable and prosperous
↑ country'.
(c) 'Buffetings' or turbulence on the road to a solution and
what HMG can do to help in the context
There are bound to be feelings of uncertainty and insecurity at this time. What is needed is determination and a steady nerve. Specific measures are for the Hong Kong Government for whom he had great admiration.
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