FM FCO
CONFIDENTIAL
TO DESKBY 18013OZ HONG KONG
TELNO 136
OF 171735Z FEBUARY 93
CONFIDENTIAL
TOP COPY Q DIST?
MAZ. 09111
24
171520
MDHOAN 8935
RY
FEB 1843
IN
AND TO DESKBY 17190OZ WASHINGTON
AND TO IMMEDIATE PEKING, UKREP JLG HONG KONG
PERSONAL FOR GOVERNOR FROM MORRIS, HKD
CHINA/MFN
1. We are preparing briefing for the Prime Minister's meeting with the President on 24 February, at which they will discuss, among other things, renewal of China's MFN status and would welcome your views. We intend suggesting that the Prime Minister should deploy familiar arguments about the damage that would be done to Hong Kong if MFN is not renewed, that partial or conditional renewal are not penality free options, and that there are other more constructive ways in which the US can put pressure on China. If it becomes evident during his discussion with the President that the Administration has concluded that unconditional renewal is not an option they can realistically pursue, we think the Prime Minister should suggest that respective officials should keep in close contact to ensure that whatever approach the Administration adopts causes as little damage as possible to Hong Kong.
2. We are faxing to you and addressees a copy of the draft brief and would be grateful for any comments deskby 18090OZ.
HURD
YYYY
ΜΑΙΝ
64
.HK POLICY
HKD
PUSD
DISTRIBUTION
65
NTCD
PLANNERS
RAD
PAGE
1
CONFIDENTIAL
Page 270Page 271