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ex. Xx
and constructive manner.
"Nevertheless, grear patience is going to the needed by both sides
we com
We aim to reach an agreement which is
we
satisfactory to all involved. Our determination to press ahead and to reach that goal is undiminished. I can give this assurance: are receptive to any proposals for Hong Kong's future which would ensure continuing stability and prosperity and be acceptable to Parliament, the Chinese Government and the people of Hong Kong.
6. We are getting on with the
with the talks as quickly as we can, but cannot predict precisely how long they will take. We are making a particular point of keeping in close touch with Hong Kong opinion, notably through the Governor and through his Executive Council. Mr Luce paid another very useful visit to the territory between 25 and 28 February, when he met again representatives of a wide range of opinion. These, amongst others, included members of the Executive and Legislative Councils, the Urban Council and District Boards as well
as community leaders and representatives of diverse social and professional groups. Such visits are an important means, in addition to discussions with EXCO, of keeping in close personal touch with opinion in Hong Kong.
7. I myself shall be visiting China in mid-April for talks on Hong Kong with the Chinese Foreign Minister and the Chinese leaders. From there I shall travel оп to Hong Kong for further discussions. I much look forward to both these visits.
8.
To sum up Our present task is to examine with the Chinese Government all feasible options for assuring continuity in Hong Kong. We seek an arrangement acceptable to both sides in the
negotiations to this House and to the Chinese Government
-
•
-
as well
The shape
as to the people of Hong Kong. We are still negotiating. of the final package which we bring to this House
bring to this House for approval will be crucial. I believe that, while change in Hong Kong, which has always been an evolving society, is inevitable, we can reach an agreement which will assure genuing continuity and autonomy for Hong Kong and the preservation of its way of life.
HONG KONG DEPARTMENT
20 March 1984
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