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DSR 11C
HOUSE OF LORDS FOREIGN AFFAIRS DEBATE, 29 FEBRUARY 1984
SPEAKING NOTE FOR LADY YOUNG: FUTURE OF HONG KONG
1.
Our confidential talks with the Chinese Government on th
future of Hong Kong are continuing through diplomatic channe
in Peking. Nine rounds have now been held in the second,
more detailed, phase of the talks which began last July. [ Tr
latest round, on 22/23 February was described by both sides
as useful and constructive. The next round will be on -/-
March. ]
2. The talks are proceeding in a good atmosphere and coveri
much detailed ground. We and the Chinese Government are cor
inuing to look realistically at the Hong Kong question from
every angle in order to see how the future stability and
prosperity of the territory, the agreed common aim of the
talks, might best be maintained.
arrangements which would ensure such a future and be accepta
to Parliament, China and the people of Hong Kong. We keep i
close touch with opinion in Hong Kong, notably through the
Governor and his Executive Council.
We are receptive to any
Stable and prosperous.
3. We, like the Chinese, aim to achieve a satisfactory
negotiated settlement. Our mutual good relations will help
to do so. We are proceeding with the talks as quickly as we
can, but no overall timetable has been set for them. We
believe that the overriding consideration must be to reach t
right settlement. In due course it will be for Parliament t
give its views on the arrangements negotiated with the
Chinese Government taking into account the views of the
people of Hong Kong.
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