CONFIDENTIAL
147175
MDHIAN 8.
3.
The Hong Kong Promotion in Europe will continue, however, and I think it important to continue with efforts to explain to European political leaders what is happening in Hong Kong, the importance of European links with Hong Kong and the opportunities that exist for Europe in Hong Kong. I have, therefore, asked Mrs Anson Chan, who will become Hong Kong's first local Chief Secretary at the end of November, to take over my role in the European promotion. At present she is the Secretary for the Civil Service but formerly was Secretary for Economic Services, overseeing all Hong Kong's economic development plans, including the new airport development projects. She has previously carried out very successful speaking programmes in Europe and North America. will accompany me to London for my meetings with Ministers.
She
4. I have met the Consuls-General of France, Germany and the Netherlands today to explain to them why I will not be able to come to Europe myself. I will be writing to all those who have already agreed to meet me, conveying my apologies. I would be most grateful if the posts concerned could also speak in advance to all whom they have been dealing with to convey
My personal regrets that I will now not be able to come to France/Germany/Netherlands in November.
The reason is because of the difficult position in the negotiations with China over constitutional development. The time is now very short in which to conclude an agreement, if that is possible, and to introduce the legislation that will be needed to conduct elections in 94/95 whether there is an agreement or not.
Important decisions will have to be made in November. I will be holding discussion with Ministers in London 8-11 November. It will then be crucial for the handling of negotiations and consultation within Hong Kong that I return to Hong Kong.
I attach the greatest importance to Hong Kong's relations with France/Germany/Netherlands and am very keen that the Hong Kong promotions in those countries should continue. I am, therefore, sending a personal representative in my place. (You may draw on the information in para 3 to brief on Anson Chan.) I hope Mrs Chan will be able to carry on the programme as far as possible.
A personal letter will follow shortly.
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