SECRET
DSR 11C
as the situation evolves, we should try to agree quickly
on the main principles including the way in which the
Governor or Chief Executive might eventually be appointed
or elected. On that basis we would be able to produce a
working paper for the Chinese with our views on the
essentials of Hong Kong's future constitutional structure.
Obviously, we should need to secure Chinese acquiescence
in any measures which take in order to establish a full
autonomous local structure before 1997, but as with all
questions falling within the agenda item on the period up
to 1997 we will need to be careful not to imply that
Peking has any veto on our actions.
I am copying this minute to the other members of OD(K) and
to Sir Robert Armstrong.
6 January 1984
Secretary of State