TNAG-0938-FCO40-1157-Visit-of-John-Nott--Secretary-of-State-for-Trade--to-Hong-Ko-1980 — Page 59

BRIEF 6

VISIT TO HONG KONG BY MINISTER FOR TRADE

30 AUGUST 5 SEPTEMBER 1980

J

POLITICAL BRIEF

POINTS TO MAKE

UK/HONG KONG RELATIONS

1.

HMG firmly committed to Hong Kong. Keen to see confidence maintained. Many admirers in UK of Hong Kong's phenomenal economic success combined with progressive social policies.

UK/HONG KONG/CHINA RELATIONS

2.

UK/China relations excellent. Recognise importance of good China/Hong Kong/UK relations to stability of Hong Kong.

FUTURE OF HONG KONG

3.

Recent Chinese statements reassuring but obviously need

underpinning.

Development of commercial and industrial co-operation

clearly helpful towards securing Hong Kong's long-term future.

If pressed The question of the long-term future of Hong Kong and the related one of the leases in the New Territories is being

looked at. But can say no more than that.

NEW BRITISH NATIONALITY LAW (if raised)

4.

White Paper provides for separate category of citizenship

for Dependent Territories. Now that it is published Hong Kong has

further opportunity to comment.

OVERSEAS STUDENTS' FEES AT UK INSTITUTIONS (if raised)

5.

We shall be monitoring the effects of the higher fees on student admissions, including those from Hong Kong.

ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION FROM CHINA (if raised)

6.

Concern about continuing high levels. Doing all we can to stem flow and urging Chinese to do same.

VIETNAMESE REFUGEES (if raised)

7.

Impressed by Hong Kong's humanitarian record. Intend to fulfil our commitment to take 10,000 refugees as soon as possible.

UK/HONG KONG AIR SERVICES (if raised)

8.

Glad that Mr Nott's decision to licence Cathay Pacific as well as