TNAG-1036-FCO40-1286-Future-of-Hong-Kong-1981 — Page 47

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DOES THE SECRETARY OF STATE INTEND TO RAISE THE FUTURE OF HONG KONG DURING HIS FORTHCOMING VISIT TO CHINA?

B

4. No.

[If Pressed]:

Within the framework of the UK's and China's

common interest in Hong Kong's stability and prosperity, some

matters of common concern may be raised. But I cannot

anticipate what subjects will be raised in confidential

intergovernmental discussions.

HMG'S COMMITMENT TO HONG KONG

5. There is no question of any change in HMG's continued

commitment to their responsibilities to Hong Kong and to its

people.

BUSINESS CONFIDENCE IN THE FUTURE OF HONG KONG

6. There are at present no indications that business confidence

is adversely affected by the terms of the Peking Convention of

1898. In March 1979, the Governor of Hong Kong was specifically

asked by Vice Premier Deng Xiaoping to tell investors to

"put their minds at ease".

EFFECTS ON HONG KONG OF THE NATIONALITY PROPOSALS

7.

HOME As was stated by my right honourable Friend the/Secretary

of State for the Home Department in Another Place on 28 January,

we are aware of the strength of feeling in Hong Kong on the need

to maintain ties with the United Kingdom; the Nationality

proposals are in no way intended to weaken these links, to which

we attach great importance.

8.) Illegal immigrants.

(9)

23000 Refugen.