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9. [Realistic to envisage joint selection?] Yes.
Chinese
aware of dangers of foisting on Hong Kong an unacceptable
candidate. Believe they will be looking for Chief Executive
who can command wide support.
10.
[Committing ourselves too much?] No. We can think
again, adopt alternative course. (But none seems SO
advantageous.) We retain control over pace and extent of
devolution of powers.
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