122
J
PRIME MINISTER'S QUESTION TIME: 24 JUNE
HONG KONG
Talks with China on Hong Kong electoral issues are being conducted in a businesslike atmosphere. We are working to
make a success of them. A sixth round is currently taking place.
Our aim is to reach an understanding with China on arrangements to ensure that the 1995 elections will be fair,
open and acceptable to Hong Kong people.
If we do reach an
understanding, the British and Hong Kong Governments will recommend this to the
Legislative Council in Hong Kong. It will be for them to pass the necessary legislation.
(Defensive: National People's Congress to set up preparatory group for post-1997 'Hong Kong)
-Under the Joint Declaration Britain is responsible_for administering Hong Kong up to July 1997.
Noone is questioning that.
(Defensive: Lack of progress in the JLG talks ending 23 June)
Disappointing that we have
made such little progress. Much business to be done and in Hong Kong's interests that we get on with it.
HKB 011/6
RECEIVED IN EGISTRY
24
REGISTRY
PA
(Defensive: What about the July deadline?)
Talks are going on. We want to give them every chance to succeed. But there is not infinite time. Legislation has to be in place in time for the District Board elections in 1994.
15ap.pm.PR
SLM