CC
SIR JOHN COLES' VISIT TO JAPAN 9
12 NOVEMBER
HONG KONG
Points to make
file.
Prospects for Hong Kong look good.
South China economic
development irreversible. Hong Kong's success hinges on its
economy. But we also need to create the right political
environment.
As Douglas Hurd told Mr Watanabe in New York on 22
September, we are grateful for Japan's efforts to influence
China.
Useful that China is told frankly that the developing
democratic system is essential to the maintenance of Hong
Kong's stability and prosperity and that Chinese attacks on it undermine business confidence in the One Country Two Systems
policy.
-
On 7 October Mr Patten proposed a package of measures
designed to develop vigorous democratic institutions in Hong
Kong, while maintaining an efficient, executive-led
Government. These were well received in Hong Kong.
- Mr Patten discussed his proposals with Chinese leaders in
Peking on 21 and 22 October. The meetings were unproductive.
But we are ready to continue talking, to seek an outcome that
is in the best interests of Hong Kong. Hope you can help persuade China that dialogue is better than confrontation.
ptm.colejap.BTC
JEB
CONFIDENTIAL