Tatangasala KalawrzydaSTROHET NGA andagi M CAKES ANGORIA Pituricing tas zamankulara da mi dalle fibaland to demedi dukkaamallapa Gad
ང-ཆབ་ན་བས- tཁོ
SECRET
HONG KONG: CHINESE AMBASSADOR'S LUNCH FOR SECRETARY OF STATE:
13 APRIL 1984
Points To Make
General Approach
1.
Intend impress on Chinese leaders our objective genuinely
same as theirs. Believe arrangements can be worked out on
basis of Chinese proposals. But in both sides interests
that proposals should command confidence in Hong Kong. Not
obstacle or "three-legged stool". Simply a matter of
telling Hong Kong people how their way of life will be
maintained.
Agreement
2. This means agreement must be binding and precise. Not
a matter of unnecessary detail but of including all essential
principles affecting laws, economy, administration etc.
Timetable
3. We genuinely want agreement this year. No interest in
continuing uncertainty. But misunderstanding about timing of
announcement of agreement and signature. Would aim to
announce draft agreement by September. But Parliament must
consider before signature and must not be rushed. Politically
unrealistic to try to get Parliamentary endorsement by July
Recess. Not a question of constitutional requirement but
political fact. Note Mrs Shirley Williams' remarks. Canada
Bill example of Parliament's need for time.
Hong Kong Department
April 1984
SECRET