TNAG-0752-FCO40-956-Future-of-Hong-Kong-1979 — Page 20

SECRET

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nothing has been done by then.

Possibility exists that Chinese will approach HMG and we should be prepared for this; but more likely that the approach would have to come from the British side. Subsequent paragraphs would deal with:

(a) Possible arrangements after 1997. This would list the more promising of the hypothetical alternatives (cf Annex B of 1976 Planning Paper).

V

(-b)

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Nature of a possible approach. Arguments for and against:

•

To be

i. An attempt to negotiate a general understanding

formal or informal, that the status quo will be maintained after 1997;r

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ii.

a limited approach related to a particular problem eg that of the New Territories leases. (c) Timing. Rehearsal of the various arguments.

This will probably point to an approach, at an appropriate time and after careful preparation, some time between 1980 (because 1978 and 1979 would be too early) and 1984 (because 1985 and after would be too late).valued

(d)

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Tactics.. This section would consider matters as on how, where and at what level an approach should

be made and what, if any, preliminary preparation of the ground might be desirable; and negotiating tactics. It would discuss what concessions både might be offered as a quid pro quo, for Chinese que ni agreement to a satisfactory arrangement after

R 1997. In this context the arguments for, and

against agreeing to an official Chinese. Government to representative in Hong Kong would be examined... Conclusions...

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Summary and outline of future startegy. Recommendations for

further work.

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