SECRET
FUTURE OF HONG KONG : BRIEFING FOR CONSERVATIVE FOREIGN AFFAIRS
COMMITTEE, TUESDAY 15 NOVEMBER 1983
"
2.
POINTS TO MAKE
1.
2.
Secretary of State put you in picture on 1 November.
(wehen worecord: bur
Hue was of cous. overshadowed by Aku cria),
Sino-British talks continuing through diplomatic channels in
Peking. Sixth session in second, more detailed phase began
yesterday and continues today. Concentrating on discussion of practical measures essential to Hong Kong's continuing stability and
prosperity.
3. No overall timetable agreed for talks. Cannot predict how long they will take. Issues complex. We are getting on with them as
quickly as we can.
Vitally
4. By common agreement content of talks confidential.
important that future arrangements for Hong Kong be worked out carefully and responsibly. Conference table is place for exchange
of views. Publicly-voiced speculation damaging to confidence in Hong Kong and detrimental to atmosphere of talks.
5. Some press speculation about "British sell-out". This harmful
and untrue. We have been trying and will continue to try throughout
talks to obtain best possible deal for Hong Kong which will maintain
uphold rights & freedoms its stability and prosperity. Are unwavering in our aim to seek
settlement acceptable to Parliament, China and people of Hong Kong.
DEFENSIVE
Have HMG conceded sovereignty and/or administration?
6. No concessions have been made. We have indicated our readiness
to examine any proposals, including the Chinese ones, to see whether
arrangements might be agreed which would be of lasting value. This would be without prejudice to our own position or overall to any final agreement which Parliament would of course have to decide on.
SECRET