SECRET
LORD PRIVY SEAL'S VISIT TO AUSTRALIA: 13-19 MARCH
FUTURE OF HONG KONG
Brief No
ESSENTIAL FACTS (NOT FOR USE)
1.
Present Chinese attitude is generally encouraging. They appear to be focussing on the future, though without clear ideas or a firm
timetable. Unlikely to be much progress by the time the Prime
Minister visits. Premier's reference to consulting 'various circles'
in Hong Kong is vague. Chinese may also not fully understand the
investor confidence concept and may be thinking that developments
in the Special Economic Zones will provide sufficient reassurance.
They appear not to have grasped yet the fact that it is only
confirmed British administration that will maintain confidence.
Sovereignty is a key issue, given repeated Chinese references to
their policy on Taiwan.
FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE
11 FEBRUARY 1982
SECRET
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