CRS-23
It is possible that U.S. officials could attempt to influence the
course of events indirectly, especially through American leaders in business
and multinational corporations that have a strong interest in Hong Kong and
enjoy good ties with PRC leaders. These executives might be encouraged
to underscore in conversations with PRC leaders the advantages of a very
cautious and consistent Chinese policy regarding reassertion of Chinese
rule that presumably would help insure continued business confidence there.
American officials might also encourage Hong Kong leaders to be more
assertive in their discussions with PRC leaders in emphasizing the need for
Chinese restraint. According to a view prevalent in Hong Kong, only a few of
the large number of Hong Kong delegates who have visited recently with PRC
leaders in Beijing have forcefully asserted the need for a basically hands
off PRC approach to the colony. Rather, they have tended to listen politely
to PRC leaders suggestions for the colony's future and to convey those views
to the Hong Kong media.
Some observers point out that Hong Kong leaders who have recently trav-
eled to Beijing for talks with top PRC officials have not been more assertive
in putting forth Hong Kong's interests in part because many of them are very wealthy entrepeneurs who are prepared to flee the colony at the first signs of
13/ a serious decline in the status quo. It is also noted that Hong Kong resi-
dents do not have a well developed tradition of political activism.
ernment has been run by the Governor and the Cabinet which receives advisory support from the Executive and Legislative Councils representing leaders in
The Gov-
13/ This view was voiced to the author by several specialists who have had long experience in Hong Kong affairs.