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disposed to his pragmatic policies but critics (both
conservative and liberal) still remain.
Influence of the
former group was strengthened by the forced resignation of
Hu Yaobang, one of the keenest reformers, from the post of
General Secretary of the CCP Central Committee.
7. Against this background, British interests in China
are:
I.
Hong Kong
The continued existence of a stable Chinese government,
capable of and willing to ensure the faithful
implementation of the Joint Declaration on the question
of Hong Kong signed in 1984.
II.
Political
The development of a stable and prosperous China
capable of resisting Soviet influence, at peace with her
neighbours and well disposed towards the West.
III. Trade
UK Imports to China have increased from £159 million
in 1983 to £536 in 1986 representing approx 2.00% of
China's total imports. The successful implementation of
China's modernisation programme, and continued open-door
policy, ensuring access for UK exports to a growing
market, a valuable source of strategically important raw
materials, and the development of a potentally useful
partner in technological collaboration.
IV.
Economic
The development of the Chinese economy and of our
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