TNAG-1029-FCO40-1279-Visits-by-FCO-officials-to-Hong-Kong-1981 — Page 34

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UK/Hong Kong Relations

There is

6. Given the 1997 worry, attitudes to HMG are aggravated.

suspicion that we must logically be preparing to ditch Hong Kong. In

these circumstances, the series of irritant actions by HMG such as the

Nationality Bill are seen as part of a coordinated policy of distancing.

Until the situation over 1997 is clarified, this will continue.

}

7. An important saving point in all this is that it is acknowledged

that the present British administration takes a robust line on the

treatment of Hong Kong internal affairs and the strong defence of the

Hong Kong Government by Ministers in answer to Parliamentary Questions

etc is appreciated. It is a point which is well worth hammering home.

Future Problems and Opportunities

8. It is natural to consider whether HMG can take some kind of initiative

to off-set the irritants in our relations and to impress Hong Kong that

we mean what we say about our commitment. I discussed this with the

Governor. There is really very little that can be done in a major

positive sense. The invitation to Sir S Y Chung to attend the Royal

Wedding will be of some help but there is no agreed policy initiative

which we can take. What we have to do however, is to watch for the

next irritants. The main one is likely to be the MFA. At present

Ministers are taking a robust line in recognition of Hong Kong interests

but we will need to ensure that this is continued in the face of likely

opposition by our Community partners. I am providing a separate minute

from you to Mr Hannay on this.

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/New Governor