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THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HER BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT
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PMVE (83) C5
3 NOVEMBER 1983
COPY NO 16
COMMONWEALTH HEADS OF GOVERNMENT MEETING, NEW DELHI
23-29 NOVEMBER 1983
HONG KONG
Brief by Foreign and Commonwealth Office
UK OBJECTIVE
1. To give, if the subject is raised, a general outline of our
talks with the Chinese Government on the future of Hong Kong.
POINTS TO MAKE (DEFENSIVE)
2.
In Bilaterals with Australians, Canadians and New Zealanders ONLY
Keeping your government informed. Fifth round in second
phase of talks 19/20 October. Described by both sides as
useful and constructive. We proposed discussion of practical
measures to maintain Hong Kong's stability and prosperity on
basis of China's plan for Hong Kong as Special Administrative
Region (SAR) of China but without prejudice to our own position.
Well received. Expect more detailed discussions on this basis.
At subsequent meeting 14/15 November we aimed to concentrate on
areas where most common ground likely, eg Hong Kong's legal and financial systems. Also informal contacts between negotiators.
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