B. FUTURE OF HONG KONG
Talks
Talks in Peking through diplomatic channels have been taking place
at intervals since the Prime Minister's visit to China a year ago.
A second more detailed phase began in July. The latest session was
held on 22/23 September.
Timetable for talks Chinese threat to make announcement by 1984
I cannot make any useful forecast of how long the talks will take. The issues are complex and are not helped by suggestions of artificial deadlines. We believe it is more important to find the right solution in the best interests of Hong Kong than to rush matters. But at the same time we understand Hong Kong's interest in
avoiding undue delay.
Progress Reports on Talks
For reasons that will be obvious to you the contents of the talks must necessarily remain confidential. That the the talks are taking place in a good atmosphere and covering much detailed ground is in
itself very encouraging. Do not mistake lack of bulletins for
inaction.
Ministers' participation in the Talks/Why are you not going to
China?
The British negotiating team is led by our Ambassador in Peking, Sir P Cradock. They are doing a first class job and we have every
confidence in them. There are no plans for the Secretary of State
or for me to join the talks. But I do not rule out Ministerial participation at an appropriate time if this was felt desirable.
The Governor's participation in the Talks
The Governor has been participating on the British side and will continue to do so as necessary. Both he, and through him, the
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