A CONFIDENCE IN HONG KONG AND RELATIONS WITH CHINA OVER HONG KONG
1.
WHAT IS HMG DOING TO RESTORE CONFIDENCE?
Working urgently on a package of measures to counter effects of emigration of talented people.
Reviewing pace of democratisation and current plans for
Legislative Council elections in 1991.
Working to try to ensure best possible Basic Law for Hong Kong; Work of Joint Liaison Group has resumed.
Hong Kong Government has announced plans to press ahead with major new infrastructure projects, including new international Airport, involving investment of £10 billion over next 15 years.
Hong Kong Government has also announced plans to publish Bill of Rights by end of year.
2.
WHAT HAVE HMG SAID TO CHINESE ABOUT CONFIDENCE?
Have welcomed Chinese reaffirmation of commitment to Joint
Declaration.
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Have made clear to them that they have vital role to play in restoring confidence by demonstrating this commitment through concrete actions eg by responding to concerns of Hong Kong people when finalising Basic Law.
3.
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STATIONING OF CHINESE TROOPS IN HONG KONG
Have always acknowledged right of Chinese to station troops in Hong Kong for defence. Joint Declaration provides for this.
- But have pointed out to Chinese that this is a very sensitive issue in Hong Kong. Hope Chinese will take full account of these sensitivities in their handling of this matter.
4. CHINESE ALLEGATIONS ABOUT HONG KONG AS BASE FOR SUBVERSION
Absolutely no question of HMG or Hong Kong Government allowing Hong Kong to be used for subversion against mainland.
But Hong Kong is governed by laws which provide for certain
freedoms. Would be wrong to prevent activities within the law. have emphasised importance of Hong Kong people exercising their freedoms in a responsible manner.
ACMAAM
But