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announcement should be made simultaneously in London and Peking, in similar or identical terms. We do not in fact think that our announcement could be used verbatim by the Chinese side, as it will need to include a reference to the forthcoming Parliamentary Debate, and also to the Prime Minister's visit to Hong Kong. We propose that we should inform the Chinese that unless they see objection we will announce the visit in the following terms:
"At the invitation of Premier Zhao Ziyang the Prime Minister will visit Peking between 19 and 21 December. She will be accompanied by the Foreign Secretary. The main purpose of the visit, subject to the outcome of the debate in Parliament, will be to sign the agreement between the British and Chinese Governments on the future of Hong Kong. Mrs Thatcher will also hold talks with Chinese leaders.
The Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary will then visit Hong Kong on 21 and 22 December. She will hold discussions with the Governor and will meet representatives of the Hong Kong community."
On timing, neither the Governor nor Sir R Evans would have any objection to an announcement in the fairly near future. The Governor points out that the Prime Minister's visit is already the subject of speculation in Hong Kong. However we think that it might be prudent to avoid any risk of criticism that we are disregarding the views of the Hong Kong people, and hence to delay the announcement until the outcome of the test of acceptability has been formally communicated to the Government. This would suggest that the announcement might be made in the week beginning 26 November. If the Prime Minister is content, we shall propose this timing to the Chinese. This would also allow time for the contacts which are envisaged with South East Asian leaders about the Prime Minister's visit there.
Programme in Hong Kong
Finally, we have discussed with the Governor the Prime Minister's programme in Hong Kong, which might be as follows:
Friday 21 December
Late morning
C
Lunch
Early afternoon
Late afternoon
Arrive from Peking.
With UMELCO at UMELCO Offices.
Visit to a District Board.
Reception at Government House for about 500 community and business representatives.
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/7.00 pm