HKB 027/1
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MR MCLAREN'S VISIT TO HONG KONG: PRESS BRIEFING: 10 NOVEMBER 1988
Welcome opportunity to meet Hong Kong-based UK press representatives: well aware of important role you play in shaping editorial perceptions in Fleet Street.
Propose to say something about what I shall be doing on this
visit.
But would like to broaden scope of briefing to cover HMG's policy on Hong Kong generally: concerned about misconceptions in British media about Joint Declaration and our commitment to Hong
Kong.
Joint Declaration
We
not a sellout: outcome of long and taxing negotiation. fought tenaciously for Hong Kong's interests, secured major concessions from Chinese. All your papers recognised at the time that this was the best outcome we could realistically hope to
achieve.
Examples:
We
China wanted unilateral statement of Chinese policies. secured binding international treaty, registered at United Nations.
We secured
China wanted sketchy outline of basic principles. detailed commitment to maintenance of Hong Kong's systems and
life-style.
China wanted selective references to rights and freedoms. secured wholesale application of International Covenants.
We
China was opposed to elected legislature for Hong Kong. secured this, plus accountability of executive.
We
Joint Declaration is a good Agreement:
comprehensive, detailed,