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March 1993
Mr T Boswell, MP
House of Commons
London SW1A OAA
Thank you for your letter of 18 March enclosing one from your
constituent Mr Jon Lougee of Flexiframe International Ltd, Oak
House, Royal Oak Way North Daventry, concerning Hong Kong.
The Governor's proposals have our full support. We have an obligation to respond to the expressed wish of the Hong Kong
people for more democracy. We are also determined to do all
we can to promote British business interests. I can understand your constituent's concern that his company might be affected should the Chinese retaliate against British
business. Trade and economic links between Britain and China
are growing strongly. This cooperation is in the interests of
both countries. We want to see it continue to develop. We
presume the China, which currently enjoys a £500 million trade surplus with the UK a year would wish to do the same.
We would regret it if the Chinese authorities allowed our
differences over the question of Hong Kong to affect broader
relations between Britain and China. Commercial and economic
relations should be decided on their merits. We have been
urging the Chinese to discuss their differences with us over
the Governor's proposals, and will go on doing all we can to
return to a more cooperative relationship with China.
boswell26.3/PSN010/NJH
ALASTAIR GOODLAD