among Hong Kong's economic partners in the developed world,
influence with
with thei
and our
But None of these are cards which are likely to change Chinese
policy on an issue which they see as touching on their sovereignity. It is reasonably encouraging that Qian seems to have been given a new coordinating role on policy towards Hong Kong. He at least brings an awareness of the damage China will do to its (as the sources have aberas made cher to an ainen pits international interests by mishandling the Hong Kong problem.
Li Peng no doubt also retains influence, and an invitation to him to
visit London would be a considerable inducement. This would only
be worth offering if it looked likely to resolve the impasse in a
way which was acceptable to us.
I propose that at OPD (K) we conclude that we should:
continue to give firm support to the Governor's electoral
proposals
encourage the Chinese to enter serious discussions with us
and to put forward alternative ideas;
give the Governor discretion to amend his proposals if
alternatives emerge which meet the criteria he has laid down, and
which would help to sustain support in Hong Kong for his broad approach and possibly mute Chinese opposition (somewhat.
contain this row as far as possible, and show that we are
ready for cooperation with China both over Hong Kong and more widely: but equally, make clear to the Chinese that they can not
expect to behave as they have been doing towards Hong Kong without affecting the overall relationship with us.
D.H.
Foreign and Commonwealth office
12 November 1992
cab.off.SA
SLM