TNAG-1172-FCO40-1453-Future-of-Hong-Kong-1982 — Page 27

PA

844-717

M112

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SECRET

Mr

Donald

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Sevetay of State

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1376

cc PS/Lord Belstead

Mr Giffard

Mr Elliott, FED

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(186)

266

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305

FUTURE OF HONG KONG: CALL BY THE RT HON EDWARD HEATH MP ON 30 JUNE AT 5.00 PM

1.

I attach a brief.

Background

FED agree.

2. In the course of a visit to China in early April, Mr Heath

had an important conversation about the future of Hong Kong with

Deng Xiaoping (Peking Telno 202). Mr Heath spoke briefly to

the Secretary of State about it on his return and it was agreed

that they would meet again when time permitted. In the meantime,

since the Chinese Ambassador in London was pressing Mr Heath for

a reaction, I have briefed Mr Heath's Private Secretary. More

recently, a Chinese Vice-Foreign Minister has asked HM Ambassador

in Peking whether we have any reactions (Peking Telno 306).

4. Mr Heath may take the line that Deng's remarks constitute

an important message to which a reply is required. I hope, however,

that, from what I told his Private Secretary last month, he will

realise already that given the sensitive and complex nature of

the subject and the fact that Ministers have been and are still

preoccupied with the Falklands crisis, it is not possible at

present to give a substantive reply to Deng's suggestions.

Moreover, even personal speculation by Mr Heath might be

regarded by the Chinese as an official response.

5. The Secretary of State will nonetheless wish to have a full and

frank discussion with Mr Heath, who knows China well and is highly

regarded and trusted there.

25 June 1982

"7

Дир

R D Clift

Hong Kong and General Department

SECRET