TNAG-0839-FCO40-1048-Relations-between-Hong-Kong-and-China-1979 — Page 44

i

OTHER DEFENCE SALES

4.

We hope for a wide and substantial relationship

with the Chinese and we are prepared to consider Chinese requests for British military equipment on a case-by-case basis. We are willing in principle to supply some items of equipment,

subject to our international obligations.

POSSIBLE REACTIONS OF OUR ALLIES/ THE SOVIET UNION/ SOUTH EAST

ASIAN COUNTRIES

5.

In considering defence sales to China, as with

defence sales to any other country, the Government will bear

in mind the views of other governments.

The development

of our relations with China is not directed against the

Soviet Union.

POSSIBLE EFFECTS ON DETENTE

6.

We do not believe that the supply of Harriers to

China would affect the strategic balance. Nor do we believe

that any other sales which might be approved need affect

East-West relations or detente to which we continue to attach

importance.

7.

HAS COCOM APPROVED ANY PARTICULAR DEFENCE SALES TO CHINA?

It has been the practice of successive Governments

not to reveal details of exchanges within the context of

COCOM. To function effectively COCOM, to which we continue

to attach importance, needs to maintain the convention whereby its discussions remain confidential.

HONG KONG

8.

We enjoy very good relations with the Chinese Government over Hong Kong and share with them an interest in

Hong Kong's continuing stability and prosperity. The

Governor of Hong Kong's visit to China earlier this year

was very successful and further improved our mutual

understanding over matters of common

interest.

19.