CONFIDENTE L
- 4
had raised the issue not he. He gained the impression that whilst they were now prepared to address themselves to the question, they had not yet decided how they should
proceed.
4.
The LPS said he would be giving a press conference prior to his departure the following day. He intended to disclose in reassuring terms that Hong Kong's future had been discussed, but that in his view China had not yet really decided how to proceed. He thought it was particularly significant that the Chinese had expressed their intention to preserve the interests of industrialists and property owners and to take account of Hong Kong's position as a free port and as a centre of business, commerce and trade.
5.
The Chinese had said that in due time they would talk to various circles in Hong Kong and with the British. The LPS said he saw nothing sinister in the reference to "circles". Mr. Andrew SO enquired what words had been used for the expression "circles".. Mr. Donald could not recall the actual words, but said it was simply the normal common NCNA expression. Mr. T.S. LO sạid Hong Kong land- owners could afford to wait for China to move, but Hong Kong industrialists required some early and positive indication of China's intentions. The LPS said he fully appreciated this point. He believed the Chinese would now actively pursue the formulation of plans, but as yet
/P.5
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.