TNAG-0250-FCO40-286-Discussions-on-EEC-negotiations-between-officials-of-Hong-Ko-1970 — Page 153

Sir C. O'Neill

Mr. Tickell

CONFIDENTIAL

Mr. Bottomilly

Talks

1

Talks with Hong Kong

We are due to have talks with Hong Kong officials, beginning

on 23 November, about the effect on Hong Kong of our entry into the

BEC, and the possible negotiating position we might adopt on behalf

of the Colony.

2. The following agenda has been croposed by the Governor, and

agreed by KING ;-

1.

Hong Kong in the context of Britain/EEC negotiations

in the light of progress to date, with special reference

to

(a) the formulation of proposals to put to the EEC for

the protection of Hong Kong interests;

(b) the relationship between entry negotiations

and Generalised Preferences:

(c) transitional arrangements, particularly the rate of

application of the ET;

1

(ā) British proposals for imposition of a tariff on Commonwealth

cotton textiles in 1972, with particular reference to (c); and

(e) any other possible methods of affording relief cr

compensation to Hong Kong for the effects of British entry.

2. Generalised Preferences in the wider context and the

tactics to be adopted vis-a-vis major donors'.

It is hoped to deal with items 1 (a), (c) and (e) at the session dealing

directly with our EC negotiatione. It is possible that we shall need to

touch on (b) also, although a more detailed discussion of Generalised

Freferences as envisaged under Point 2 of the Agenda should take place

at a different session.

13.