CONFIDENTIAL
B
Government consulted the FCO about the proposed review. We said we saw no objection. We asked that it should receive minimum publicity in order not to offend Chinese sensitivities about local Government reform in Hong Kong. Peking, had similar concerns. We have however agreed with the Governor that he should include a reference to the review in his Annual Address to the Legislative Council on 6 October (which will be made public). It will be clear from the reference that no major constitutional changes are envisaged as a result of the review. No reference will be made to the formation of a working party nor will the options be mentioned. There should therefore be no need to offer any explanation to the Chinese beforehand.
Siri
15 September 1983
CONFIDENTIAL
R D Clift
Hong Kong Department
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