AR Paul Esq
Hong Kong Dept
FCO
220
BRITISH EMBASSY
35, rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré- 75383 Paris Cedex 08
Telephone : 42 66 91 42
Your reference
Our reference
Date 18 April 1990
pa.
J1944
for Alan pear
нко 34011
RECEIVED IN REGISTRY
02 MAY 1990
DESK OFFICER
INDEX
PA
INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT FOR HONG KONG: FRENCH POSITION
REGISTRY
Action Taken
1. Following our telecon just ended, here is the text we are suggesting for a defensive reply if Mr Maude is asked to clarify precisely what he believes the French position to be:
"We have been in regular touch with the French on this subject. They have helpfully indicated that, along with other countries, they are taking measures to reassure essential staff working for international companies in Hong Kong. We are not aware that any French scheme is finalised, and it will be for the French Government to makes its details public as they judge appropriate. As to the number of Hong Kong Chinese affected by such a scheme, there has been press speculation that this may be in the region of 1000-1500. But obviously this will depend on the precise measures, and would be for the French Government to make public."
2. A classified telegram giving a brief comment on the above follows deskby, but the above text is I hope self-standing.
You
سو
JM Macgregor