TNAG-1231-FCO40-1544-Visit-by-Richard-Luce--Minister-of-State-for-Foreign-and-Com-1983 — Page 82

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* Pely to the visit and Press Conferences

MR LUCE'S PRESS CONFERENCE IN HONG KONG: 28 SEPTEMBER 1983

1.

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You asked for comment on Mr Luce's statement to the press on 28 September and on the question and answer session which followed.

2.

Mr Luce's statement repeated the essence of our telno 961 with some modifications (see Hong Kong telno 1421). He made particularly helpful remarks about:

(a) British Ministers fully understanding Hong Kong's anxiety

about its future.

(b) The need to retain the mutual trust existing between the

British Government and the people of Hong Kong, whom we would continue to consult.

(c) HMG's commitment to do its best for the people of Hong Kong within the context of our objective of a solution acceptable to Britain, China and the people of Hong Kong.

(d) HMG's determination to try to build even further on the

success that has traditionally characterised Hong Kong.

(e) The need to realise that a difficult path lies ahead.

(f) The realisation that although some degree of turbulence

would doubtless accompany our quest to find a

satisfactory settlement, Hong Kong "people 'have it in them to weather the storm'.

(g) The need for confidentiality in the talks and the unhelpful

nature of 'megaphone diplomacy', practised, sadly, by the Chinese.

3. The question and answer session pointed up nothing out of line. The following gives the essence of the views which Mr Luce expressed on the diverse subjects raised with him:

(a) Unanimity of Hong Kong opinion on the Future

The common element revealed in discussions with a wide ranging body of opinion was the desire to maintain Hong Kong's existing freedoms and stability.

(b) Desire of Hong Kong people to see British administration

continue beyond 1997

Hong Kong people's basic concern is the continuation and continuing construction of a stable and prosperous

↑ country'.

(c) 'Buffetings' or turbulence on the road to a solution and

what HMG can do to help in the context

There are bound to be feelings of uncertainty and insecurity at this time. What is needed is determination and a steady nerve. Specific measures are for the Hong Kong Government for whom he had great admiration.

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