MELAAZ
CONFIDENTIAL
SECRETARY OF STATE'S VISIT TO WASHINGTON, 10-12 SEPTEMBER
HONG KONG/CHINA/VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE
Points to Make
CHINA
Political developments in China since June do not justify an
early relaxation of Western measures.
Signs are, on the contrary, that the hardline leadership is
tightening repression arrests and executions, crackdown in
education sector.
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Chinese leaders doubtless waiting for cracks to appear in
Western unity. Would send the wrong signals, and be misunderstood
by Western public opinion if Western measures relaxed too soon.
Pressure for general trade/economic sanctions must be resisted.
General sanctions would be harmful to Chinese people. And would be
immensely damaging to Hong Kong.
HONG KONG
Confidence : General
Situation in Hong Kong has settled down slightly. But Tiananmen massacre had profound impact, and effects will persist. Doing all
we can to rebuild confidence and demonstrate continuing British commitment to Hong Kong
Look to United States and our other friends in international
community for support. In view of major US economic stake there, a
prosperous, confident, Hong Kong very much in US interests both for its own sake and as gateway to the most dynamic and prosperous part
of China.
CONFIDENTIAL