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Areas of Disagreement with the Chinese
There is a difference of views over sovereignty. The Chinese
position is well-known. Our position has been clearly stated.
But given our common objective, I believe that satisfactory
arrangements can be worked out.
Failure to Reach Agreement with the Chinese
That is a very pessimistic view. The Chinese leader and the
Prime Minister agreed on a common aim to maintain the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong and the aim of the talks is to build
on this. We mean to achieve this. Our current excellent
relations with China will help us to do so.
UK Position on Sovereignty and the Treaties
Our position has been clearly stated. We are now looking to the
future. The right way to deal with the question is by friendly discussion and agreement. I would not rule out any solution
that was acceptable to the people of Hong Kong and HMG.
What about the Chinese plan? What was the Prime Minister told
about Chinese intentions in Peking?
We are well aware of the main lines of the Chinese Government's
thinking but they have not suggested that there is a blue-print.
During the Prime Minister's talks in Peking both sides outlined
their positions but did not go into detail. The important point
was the agreement to hold further confidential discussions.
What is HMG's aim and plan for the future?
HMG aims, through discussion with the Chinese Government, to agree with arrangements for the future which will maintain Hong Kong's stability and prosperity in a way acceptable to the British Parliament and the people of Hong Kong. Both we and the
Chinese Government have the strongest possible motives for reaching such an agreement.
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