CONFIDENTIAL
MR MAUDE'S VISIT TO HONG KONG: 17-19 SEPTEMBER 1989
BRIEF NO 8:
MEETING WITH EXCO
Opening Statement
Not my first visit to Hong Kong.
here.
Many friends and acquaintances
Have long admired the resourcefulness and enterprising
spirit that have characterised Hong Kong.
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As Minister with special responsibility for Hong Kong, territory
is a top priority for me Also a key concern of John Major. He and
•
I have made a point of seeing as many people as possible from Hong
Kong since assuming office.
Hong Kong matters are not easy to tackle, particularly post
Tiananmen. Do not underestimate the impact that the events of June
have had on the territory.
But HMG are determined to do everything we possibly can
restore confidence and to safeguard Hong Kong's future.
to help
I shall have more to say about the major problems facing Hong
Kong at present, such as Vietnamese boat people, and about the key issues which I know are of particular concern to you. But first
would like to hear your views.
Line to take
(a) Vietnamese boat people
Stress time and effort Ministers have put in to tackling this problem (eg Prime Minister/President Bush, Secretary of State/Baker, visits by officials to Washington; negotiations with Vietnam;
cultivation of Hocke).
NABAAV
CONFIDENTIAL
EXCO