TNAG-1119-FCO40-1394-Territorial-claims-to-British-possessions-and-dependencies-1982 — Page 22

HKG 040/1

#TROUSERS NO. 57

CONFIDENTIAL

Separate copies to:

Mr Fearn, Emergency Unit

Mr MacInnes, Information Department

Mr Fenn, News Department

із

GUIDANCE TELEGRAM NO 117: DIEGO GARCIA AND THE FALKLANDS

AF2216

1. Whilst this telegram creates no immediate problems in respect of Hong Kong I must emphasise that a general acceptance of the right to self-determination for dependent territories is likely to cause us difficulty over Hong Kong. While Ministers have said that the wishes of the people of Hong Kong will be taken into account, full self-determination (eg through arefere

eferendum or elections) is not practicable there.

2.

I realise that this right is fundamental to our case on the Falkland Islands. But in Hong Kong we could run into serious difficulties if parallel treatment were demanded there, when the question of Hong Kong's future is discussed with the Chinese Government. It is important, therefore, that so far as possible we avoid giving the impression self-determination is applicable to the other dependencies across the board. I should be grateful if any guidances touching on this cleared with this department.

equally If possible, could be

10 June 1982

Blip

R D Clift

Hong Kong and General Department

CONFIDENTIAL

11/4