RESTRICTED
ANNEX A
The Mistakes of Aden
1)
No-one knew why we were there; we had no interest except to go.
or
2) We had no plan rather, we had a new plan every few months.
3) We fell out with the rest of the Arab world, threatening thereby the stability of our friends in the Gulf and elsewhere.
4) HMG was weak and there was no continuity in London. The transfer of responsibility from the Colonial Office to FO added to the confusion: diplomats had no experience of Colonial government, and the Aden Government officials no knowledge of diplomacy.
5) Because of that, the Governor was constantly protecting his rear, sometimes unsuccessfully.
6) And because of that, the many British agencies with authority in South Arabia were divided among themselves and became increasingly demoralised.
7) We eventually did not care what happened after we left.
Lessons of Hong Kong
1) The long-term national interests of UK, China and Hong Kong coincide a flourishing financial centre, based on the rule of law, where the top managers needed for China's development (and that of the region) can live with their families in comfort.
2)
The Joint Declaration and Basic Law provide a clear, public framework.
3) Relations between China and Britain are good. As the last constitutional issues of Hong Kong are resolved, and as our economic interests increase, bilateral ties should improve. A shared interest in resisting protectionist forces around the world might bind us together. The Hong Kong Government could learn from the businessman that it needs to know better and work with its large neighbour.
4)
The return to power of a Conservative administration in May 1992 assured a clear run to 1996/7.
5) The arrival of Mr Patten as Governor demonstrated the unity of HMG in London and government in Hong Kong.
6) There have been signs of that same discord in Hong but under Mr Patten the situation has improved. A trade policy, shared with the Hong Kong authorities and supported by the Hong Kong and British business communities, will help bring us all into step.
7) British interests in Hong Kong are likely to grow up to and after 1997.