CODAAT
CONFIDENTIAL
Myso major oper
Mr Martin, HID Thank you, Somy for Wo
not retuming
Mr McLaren
PS/Mr Maude
this earlier.
V-Ewan
6/11
if not already
FROM
Give
D G Martin
(98
25 SEP 1989
Hong Kong Department
DATE: 25 September 1989
CC Mr McLaren
1/22
HKC031/22
THIRTEENTH MEETING OF JOINT LIAISON GROUP: DINNER 26 SEPTEMBER
7 FOR 7.30
//
1. Mr Maude has approved the guest list for the dinner, a copy of which is attached. Please note the amended time. I also attach
notes on the Chinese JLG team.
2. Mr Maude will be expected to make a brief speech and propose a toast. A draft is attached.
3.
Since the dinner precedes the main meeting, I recommend that Mr Maude should use the occasion to put across some more general points on the following lines:
Do not expect we shall agree on the reasons for the low state of confidence in Hong Kong. But important China recognise that there is a problem, and that action by both sides is needed to put it right.
most
We are playing our part, particularly through proceeding with major infrastructure plan in Hong Kong. For China, the important thing is to get the Basic Law right. Above all China must show that Chinese policy really did change in June.
People in Hong Kong are genuinely nervous and can be easily intimidated by intemperate Chinese criticism. In China's interests to take a statesmanlike approach and avoid controversy. China must accept that freedom of expression will continue to result in things being said that are offensive to Chinese sensitivities. (Other
CONFIDENTIAL