TNAG-1142-FCO40-1422-Hong-Kong-and-the-Falkland-Islands-crisis-1982 — Page 138

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DSR 11C

Question:

Does this commitment include defending Hong Kong.

against external aggression?

Answer:

HMG does of course have responsibility for the defence of

Hong Kong. But Hong Kong's situation is not the same as

that of the Falkland Islands. Chinese leaders have stressed

on several occasions their desire for Hong Kong's continuing

prosperity and its importance as a commercial centre and

free port'.

China/UK relations have never been better.

Questions about the expiry of the New Territories Lease:

Answer:

Obviously the expiry of the New Territories Lease in 1997

poses problems. As the Lord Privy Seal said after his

visit to China in January, the Chinese are now thinking

about the future of Hong Kong with a view to discussing

it in due course with HMG. Our impression is that the

they regard as important elements the continued prosperity

of Hong Kong and its position as a frée port and financial

and commercial centre.

Question:

Would HMG consider handing back Hong Kong to the

Chinese against the wishes of the Hong Kong people?

Answer:

No. It would be the object of any discussions with the

Chinese to ensure that the interests of the people of

Hong Kong were fully safeguarded.

/Question