(f) CHINESE VIEWS DURING 1987/88 REVIEW ON DIRECT ELECTIONS IN HONG
KONG
Decisions were taken by us. All options in Review (including direct elections in 1988) were genuine ones. Key factors in
decisions were views of people of Hong Kong and interests of Hong
Kong and all its people.
But in commenting on Green Paper, many people referred to importance of ensuring that development of government before 1997 was compatible with Basic Law. Many people in Hong Kong no doubt influenced by what they believed to be China's wishes.
BRITAIN SHOULD HAVE STOOD UP TO CHINA
Not a question of standing up to China. Over-riding need is to
secure foundation for future stability and prosperity of Hong Kong.
This cannot be, founded on confrontation between Britain and China.
WERE CHINESE WERE CONSULTED ON 1987/88 DECISION?
Frequent exchanges with Chinese Government about Hong Kong.
Kept Chinese Government should be kept informed about Hong Kong people's thinking on issues dealt with in Green Paper.
But decisions on outcome of 1987/88 Review were ours alone.