CONFIDENTIAL
DSR 11C
SECTION III: CHINESE POLICY ON SPECIFIC ISSUES RELATED TO HONG KONG
Channels of communication between the Hong Kong Government and
Chinese authorities
54 Britain recognised the People's Republic of China in January 1950,
although it was March 1972 before Ambassadors were exchanged. Since
1950, formal and official contact between HMG and the Chinese Government
on questions concerning Hong Kong had thus been established through
diplomatic channels at London and Peking. Any, more immediate or direct
communication between the Hong Kong Government and Chinese authorities
was hampered by the Chinese refusal to recognise the Government of Hong
The Kong and to claim the territory was a part of China.
55
Nevertheless, other channels of communication have developed over
the years.
Chiefly through the offices of China's unofficial
representatives in Hong Kong (namely, New China News Agency), the Hong
Kong Government has gradually established a working relationship with
the Chinese authorities in Guangzhou (Canton) and Peking. This
relationship has reflected the general moderation and pragmatism
marking China's attitudes towards Hong Kong in most recent years, and
the scope and level of contacts between the Hong Kong Government and
Chinese authorities has increased accordingly. At the highest level
this was affirmed by the Governor's official visit in March-April 1979
to China, where in Guangzhou and Peking he met and talked with Chinese
Provincial and national leaders.
CONFIDENTIAL
Dd 427265 250M 5/77 905275
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.