- As expected, Chinese spokesmen
have reacted harshly.
They
appear to have ruled out talks
and have said that they will prepare for a new legislature
in 1997.
- We face another bumpy period. Are emphasising that the door remains open. Know that some
on the Chinese side favoured
talks and hope they will
prevail. But if we must, we will get the legislative
process underway. Aim is to have the legislation passed by
the July recess.
Grateful if you could tell
Chinese privately that modest democratic progress in Hong
Kong is essential for
stability and prosperity; and
to warn that if China
undermines faith in "one
country, two systems"
international business will
take its investment elsewhere.