XN000022-1996-03-04 — Page 9

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Prime Minister: I considered whether we should actually set down a specific series of circumstances that would be met. We could do that and we will consider, in the period between now and June 1997, whether that might be an appropriate way to deal with the problem.

At this moment, Don, I am not convinced that it is. There are many alternative scenarios that may arise. One thing is certain, these people that we are talking about will not wish to leave Hong Kong of their own volition unless it is absolutely necessary for them to do so. They have their lives here, their businesses here, their interests here, their families here. Every indication we have is that they will wish to stay in Hong Kong if they possibly can.

But if circumstances arise where it is inappropriate for them to remain in Hong Kong, I think that will be apparent. It is a little like designing an elephant - you're not quite sure where to start the design but, by golly, you know when you see it. And I think it is probably wise to leave it upon that basis because that gives the greatest degree of flexibility which I would anticipate we would exercise benevolently if there were risk, to deal with the relatively small number of people who may face this problem. But we could, as I say, identify specific sets of circumstances where we would act. But without further discussion and consideration I am not convinced that would particularly be in the interests of the people concerned.

Question (Washington Post): I am wondering, do you think there is something that China could be doing right now to help calm some of the anxieties? For example, talking to the elected Democratic Party officials or talking to the Governor here.

Prime Minister: I think that would be very helpful, yes. I think they could and I very much hope that they will. IfI may return to the point I made earlier. Over the last two or three years many issues that looked as though they were going to provoke huge dissent and may be unbrokerable between Britain, Hong Kong and China, have now been solved. So I think we may well be able to solve some of those matters that so much concern people at present. But yes, self-evidently it would help if there were a dialogue with LegCo and a further and more comprehensive dialogue with the Governor and I would hope there will be such a dialogue.

Question: How much have you raised in the past few days for your Party, in Hong Kong? Free?

Prime Minister: Not what I came here for. Not what I have done. I didn't come here for that purpose, I haven't discussed that purpose. It has not been on my agenda. It has neither crossed my mind nor has it crossed my lips. The answer is that was not why I was here. Is that clear enough?

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