TNAG-1142-FCO40-1422-Hong-Kong-and-the-Falkland-Islands-crisis-1982 — Page 131

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DSR 11C

Question:

How do you intend to ascertain the views of the

people of Hong Kong?

Answer:

Obviously the wishes of the people of Hong Kong would be

taken into account. The Hong Kong Government already has

well-tried machinery for ascertaining public opinion.

Question:

Is HMG considering a 'lease-back' for Hong Kong on

the lines previously mooted in the context of the

Falkland Islands?

Answer:

No conclusions have been reached.

[If pressed] Of course the position in Hong Kong and

the Falklands is different in that part of the territory

is covered by a lease arrangement but this should not

be taken as prejudging the solution.

Question:

Would HMG be prepared to grand admittance to

the United Kingdom of all British passport holders in Hong

Kong in an emergency, as has been done for the Falkland

Islanders?

Answer:

This is a hypothetical question. Any situation would have

to be considered on its merits.