TNAG-1022-FCO40-1272-Relations-between-Hong-Kong-and-the-United-Nations-1981 — Page 85

CONFIDENTIAL

delegation should point out that there is a substantial difference between the position of governments and of individuals and other organisations in this matter. The government must take a realistic case-by-case approach to human rights' violations and must weigh carefully the likely effect of any action it may take. Private individuals and non-

governmental organisations often have more leeway. HMG will never- theless continue to use appropriate ways of making its views known and also try to ensure that the United Nations human rights machinery is used practically and effectively.

7. Eastern European states argue that Civil and Political Rights are realised by having the 'correct' sort of economic and social framework, as established in Eastern Europe. This view also emphasises the role of the state above that of the

individual.

8.

The West rejects this subordinate position given to Civil and Political Rights and argues that the two sets of rights are indivisible and should be implemented together. The

East European viewpoint is not in accord with the terms of the

Conventions themselves: the Economic and Social Covenant requires states to take steps 'with a view to achieving progressively the full implementation of the right recognised in the Covenant

by all appropriate means'. This is in contrast to the Civil and Political Covenant under which states parties are required to ensure to individuals within their territories the rights set out in the Covenant ie immediately and regardless of their economic position.

Defensive

9.

HMG is not a party to the Optional Protocol of the Covenant on Civil and Political Rights which permits the right of individual petition. This is partly to avoid duplication, as

/a means of

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