D.C
FLAGE
(408
POINTS ΤΟ MAKE
1.
Encouraging to learn second phase of Sino-British talks under way. with common aim of maintaining stability and prosperity of Hong Kong. Confident that given agreed common aim, satisfactory solution to Hong Kong's future can be reached.
2.
Know British Government attach great importance to maintaining good relations with China. Their publicly stated aim is to seek a solution on Hong Kong's future acceptable to British and Chinese Governments and to people of Hong Kong. Britain obtains no revenues from Hong Kong, Their interest is to meet obligations to the people.
Hong Kong as it exists now is thriving, prosperous and viable. In no-one's interest for this to change. Realisation of this in joint Sino-British aim to maintain Hong Kong's stability and prosperity.
4.
China has floated idea of Hong Kong as autonomous Special Administrative Region (SAR) under Chinese constitution. Much doubt in Hong Kong as to whether this could preserve Hong Kong's stability and prosperity.
5.
Chinese assurances insufficient in themselves to show that Hong Kong as SAR of China would function essentially as it does now. Need positive evidence of effective guarantees. Important to reassure
investors.
3.
i
6.
Present system in Hong Kong effective. Designed to provide maximum of individual freedom. and minimum of government intervention.
This has attracted and fostered domestic and international confidence.