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LORD COCKFIELD'S VISIT TO CHINA
19-27 NOVEMBER 1983
FUTURE OF HONG KONG
Background (not for use)
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THE ORIGINAL HAS BEEN CLOSED FOR
40 YEARS UNDER FOI EXEMPTION NO. ----------------
1. During the Prime Minister's visit to China in September 1982 she agreed with Chinese leaders to initiate talks through diplomatic channels with the common aim of maintaining Hong Kong's stability and prosperity. The talks are taking place in Peking.
Progress was initially slow because of Chinese insistence that we first recognise their sovereignty over the whole of Hong Kong.
2.
3. The Prime Minister gave nothing away.
!
She made clear that
sovereignty was not in her gift. Parliament alone could decide. She stressed the need for finding workable arrangements after 1997 acceptable to Britain, China and the people of Hong Kong.
A.
A second, more detailed phase of talks began on 12/13 July. Further meetings were held on 25/26 July and in August, September and October. The fifth round, on 19/20 October, was described by
both sides as useful and constructive. Next round 14/15 November. Meanwhile, informal contacts between negotiators.
5. The Chinese delegation is led by Vice Foreign Minister Yao Guang and the British delegation by HMA Peking. The Governor of Hong Kong is participating as appropriate on the British side.
has attended all sessions to date.
He
6. By agreement with the Chinese, the content of the talks is
confidential.
The atmosphere in the second phase has been good, but the Chinese line on substance has become increasingly tough. demand sovereignty and maintain that administration cannot be separated from it.
They
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