HOW MANY INVOLVED?
860 British subjects in
Shanghai (340 in Peking).
China. Nearly 500 in Peking and
EMBASSY STAFF?
The question of evacuating Embassy staff and dependents is under active review.
(if asked) There are 56 UK-based staff in Peking and Shanghai, plus 52 dependents.
POLITICAL ASYLUM?
We would look very carefully at any applications.
CHINESE STUDENTS WANTING TO STAY ON IN UK?
We would look very carefully at any applications.
LEVEL OF HUMANITARIAN AID TO VICTIMS OF VIOLENCE?
We shall
discuss with NGOs. Cannot yet determine precise
levels. Shall treat requests sympathetically.
CONTRAST BETWEEN HMG REACTIONS NOW AND INACTION OVER SIMILAR EVENTS
IN TIBET?
Scale of events of Peking completely overshadows those in Tibet. Different order of magnitude.
In any event HMG has made its concerns and those of this House on Tibet clear to the Chinese authorities on many occasions. We expressed our regret at the imposition of Martial Law on Tibet and have consistently urged dialogue between the Chinese authorities and Tibetan people.
Similarly we urge that peaceful dialogue should be the way of solving the present situation.
Far Eastern Department
6 June
1989
AS 3 AAU/4