CONFIDENTIAL
PRIME MINISTER'S BILATERAL WITH MR MULRONEY: 14 JULY
HONG KONG AND THE COMMONWEALTH
The Canadian High Commission here have told us that
Mr Mulroney may suggest encouraging links between Hong Kong and the Commonwealth, in the hope that these could survive
after 1997, thereby enhancing Hong Kong's autonomy.
The
We very much doubt whether this idea is workable. Chinese would never tolerate it, given their sovereignty
sensitivities. The Governor of Hong Kong accepts this
reality. The most which might be managed would be for
individuals in Hong Kong to retain informal and personal
contacts with Commonwealth institutions. But that would
hardly enhance Hong Kong's autonomy.
If Mr Mulroney raises this, we recommend that the
Prime Minister is politely non-committal.
Line to take
Grateful for Canadian interest in and support for
Hong Kong.
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We share a common interest in maintenance of a successful
Hong Kong before and after 1997.
Suggest any ideas Canadians have be discussed between our respective officials.
TEDAEI/1
TG
CONFIDENTIAL