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CONFIDENTIAL
119
DSR 11C
ROYAL SOCIETY MEETING WITH MR WHITNEY: 21 FEBRUARY 1984:
FUTURE OF HONG KONG
ESSENTIAL FACTS
1. The New Territories, which comprises 92% of the land
area of the British Dependent Territory of Hong Kong, are
held under a 99 year lease from China which is due to expir
on 30 June 1997. The Chinese government has stated that
China intends to regain sovereignty of the territory after
this date.
2. The second (ie more detailed) phase of the talks
between the British and Chinese governments began in July
1983. There have now been eight rounds of talks.
The last
We
on 25/26 January. The next will be on 22/23 February.
have given nothing away and do not regard the outcome of th tälks as prejudged by anything that may be said outside.
We remain receptive to any proposals that would help reach
a solution.
3.
Our aim is to seek a settlement acceptable to both
China and the people of Hong Kong. Their views are being
taken into account. Made known to us and Governor through
many channels eg the Executive Council.. The Governor is
participating on the Briitsh side in the talks.
CONFIDENTIAL
MKKCAO/1
·NDE
3
* 1984
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REGISTRY
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