IN CONFIDENCE
China in September 1982, when it was announced that the two Governments would hold talks through diplomatic channels with the common aim of maintaining the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong.
5.9
Meetings in Peking to follow up the Prime Minister's visit
through diplomatic channels began soon afterwards and are continuing. On 1 July 1983 the following statement was issued in Peking, London and Hong Kong:
"Following the discussions between the leaders of the two
countries in September 1982 and subsequent useful exchanges, it has been agreed that a second phase of the talks on the future of Hong Kong will begin in Peking on 12 July 1983."
5.10 In the second phase, eight rounds of talks have been held in Peking, the most recent on 25/26 January 1983. The following
statement was issued there on 26 January:-
•
"The Chinese and British sides continued their useful and
constructive talks on the Hong Kong question on 25 and 26 January in Peking. It was agreed that the ninth round of talks would take place on 22/23 February in Peking."
The Governor of Hong Kong has been consulted throughout, and has participated personally in the talks since the beginning of the second phase.
5.11 The content of the tains must remain confidential. HMG's aim in them is to reach a solution that is acceptable to the British and Chinese Governments and to t'ie people of hong Kong. We are not making any rigid preconditions as to how this might be achieved and are receptive to any proposals that would meet these criteria. We are concentrating on the talks and do not regard their outcome as prejudged by anything that may be said outside them.
20
IN CONFIDENCE