CONFIDENTIAL COVERING SECRET
LORD BELSTEAD'S MEETING WITH THE SINGAPORE MINISTER OF FOREIGN
AFFAIRS, MR DHANABALAN
FUTURE OF HONG KONG
POINTS TO MAKE (DEFENSIVE)
1.
Since talks were agreed in September several meetings
with Chinese have been held. These are continuing. Common aim of maintaining Hong Kong's stability and prosperity. Content
confidential. No timetable set.
2.
Differences exist but we believe arrangements can be agreed which will be acceptable to Parliament and to the people of Hong Kong. Despite Chinese propaganda we are concentrating on the talks. Aim to find a solution which as far as possible will maintain continuity and preserve the people's standard of living and way of life.
31
Meanwhile business confidence in Hong Kong remains
generally high. Important that nothing is said or done to damage this.
4.
Chinese propaganda has floated the idea of Hong Kong as a
Special Administrative Region of China. Some Hong Kong people attracted to the idea of Hong Kong people running Hong Kong, but
most believe it would not work and fear interference by Peking.
5.
I know your Prime Minister was in Hong Kong last month.
Interested to hear your views. What do you think of the SAR
concept? Would Singaporean investors have faith in such an
arrangement? We do not believe it is compatible with the common
aim.
CONFIDENTIAL COVERING SECRET
ļ