TNAG-1230-FCO40-1543-Visit-by-Richard-Luce--Minister-of-State-for-Foreign-and-Com-1983 — Page 119

Cannot

1

RESTRICTED

A

Enter 1619/12

19%

20

(74)

HER 027/20.. Sex 728 Hankyou Bramalt beelhi

RECEIVED IN REGLETO

20 SEP 1983

DESK CHALL

PS/Mr Luce H

ccs:

interview how

for 2pm R161 RIGI

Schean scheduled

text of mir

Mr Donald Heat/Conferin

Mr Roberts, News' Dept Mr Thomson, FED

Crash /kons

MR LUCE'S VISIT TO HONG KONG: RADIO INTERVIEW WITH RTHK, 11.30 MONDAY 19 SEPTEMBER

1.

Mr Roberts' minute to me of 8 September refers (copy attached).

2. I realise it will be very difficult to steer Mr Montgomery of RTHK away from questions concerning the future of Hong Kong but I suggest that if the future is raised Mr Luce should stick closely to the following line:

Delighted to be visiting Hong Kong. Particularly welcome opportunity to hear views of people there. You will realise I cannot say anything at this point about our talks with the Chinese other than to stress that we remain committed to seeking a solution acceptable not just to Britain and China but also to Hong Kong.

3. On the three specific points raised in para 2 of Mr Roberts' minute, I suggest the Minister takes the following line:

Purpose of visit to Hong Kong

To see at first hand how Hong Kong works. To meet and hear the views of as wide a range of Hong Kong people as possible. To have talks with the Governor, EXCO and UMELCO. To reassure the people that we are committed to seeking a solution accept- able not just to Britain and China but also to Hong Kong.

Confidentiality of talks

ne hate *

14

Many stories and rumours flying around about what is or is not happening in the talks, and what our or the Chinese posi- tion may or may not be. These stories are not helpful to anyone. Talks are taking place and that is what matters. We cannot negotiate through the press. That will not produce the right result. Much patient exploration still needed. Lack of bulletins should not be mistaken for lack of action.

Grass roots opinion in Hong Kong

Programme enables me to meet wide range of people at all levels, including UMELCO, Heung Yee Kuk, Urban Council, District Board Members, young professionals, businessmen etc. Important that Hong Kong people use all channels available to make their views known not just to us, but also to the Chinese.

نواده

RESTRICTED

/ 4.