CONFIDENTIAL
Chinese Comments on Issues Related to the Sino-British Talks
(July 3 July 16, 1993)
J
Introduction
During the period under review, Chinese comments on issues related to the talks have not been as hard-hitting as before. Instead
of questioning the sincerity of the British side, the Chinese side has gone back to the emphasis on the "three conformities" and Sino-British co-operation. The apparently milder tone of the Chinese side may have something to do with British Foreign Secretary Douglas Hurd's China visit. Senior Chinese leaders, Jiang Zemin and Qian Qichen, have stressed at meetings with Mr Hurd that it would not be difficult for the talks to achieve results if both sides abided by the "three conformities". Satisfied as they may be with the visit, the Chinese have been seen levelling some criticisms at Mr Hurd's "political city"
remark. But the scale of attack is considered measured as the Chinese side has not criticised Mr Hurd personally for making such comments. just reiterates its opposition to turning HK into an arena for political
forces.
The
However,
On the reform package, the Governor has come under attack as Chinese officials and commentaries in one voice criticise him for citing Article 104 of the BL as the criteria for the "through train". Chinese side still maintains a very firm stand as far as the confirmation procedure for the "through train" is concerned. it has demonstrated some flexibility now and then as to whether objective criteria can be drawn up in advance, although Chinese sources and officials have maintained that it will be up to the NPC standing
committee to decide whether that can be done before the 1995 elections.
Another issue on which the Chinese side seems to have been more flexible
is the composition of the Election Committee. It now appears possible that the Chinese side will agree to having a larger elected element in the Committee, except in the category comprising former political figures and local delegates to the NPC and CPPCC.
On the SARPC preparatory working committee, the Chinese side appears anxious to clarify its role. Chinese officials and commentaries have stressed time and again that it will not undermine the administrative authority of the British-HK Government or affect the operations of the JLG.
CONFIDENTIAL