With all Commonwealth Representatives
3.
Sino-British talks through diplomatic channels agreed
September 1982. Meetings held Peking. Common aim of
maintaining Hong Kong's stability and prosperity.
4. Second, more detailed phase of talks began July.
Eive
rounds since. Meeting 19/20 October useful and constructive.
Further meeting 14/15 November. Governor of Hong Kong
participating since July.
Governor and
5. . We aim to seek settlement acceptable to Britain, China and
people of Hong Kong. Their views taken fully into account.
In close consultation through Governor with Hong Kong's
Executive Council (EXCO). Their role central.
Unofficial members of EXCO visited London again 6-8 October.
6. Central issue: to devise package inspiring confidence.
Given agreed common aim, confident this possible.
7.
Meanwhile important nothing said or done to damage confidence
Grateful your understanding.
in Hong Kong or atmosphere of talks.
8.
Chinese propaganda floats Hong Kong as SAR of China, with
considerable autonomy and lifestyle basically unchanged.
9. Most Hong Kong people sceptical of SAR idea. Evidence
suggests details rudimentary and basis for confidence not grasped
by Chinese. Investors need effective guarantees against
Chinese interference.
administration.
This at present provided by British
10. We do not obtain revenue from Hong Kong nor have we
colonialist aspirations.
We want best possible deal for
Hong Kong.
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