TNAG-1239-FCO40-1552-Future-of-Hong-Kong-1983 — Page 32

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HONG KONG: REFORM CLUB DELEGATION TO UK ON FUTURE OF HONG KONG

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1. I saw a delegation from the Hong Kong Reform Club on 21 April. The purpose of their visit is to present to the FCO and MPs the results of an opinion poll they commissioned on attitudes to the future.

2.

We have a full copy of the report but its prime finding is that 70% of the population wished the status quo to remain.

3

The leader of the delegation, Mr Francis Chaine, an Urban Councillor, said that concern over the future was growing and that they believed that both HMG and the PRC were inhibited from initiating discussions on the future. The Reform Club therefore wished to act as a go-between. He stressed the importance of finding a solution within 2 years, failing which, confidence would crumble. He also suggested that HMG should keep Hong Kong informed of any progress on talks at regular intervals.

4. I stressed that HMG was aware of concern in Hong Kong and wanted to see the problem solved. I explained in general terms the need to maintain confidence and the problems of making a move before the Chinese were ready. I drew attention to Mr Atkins' statement to the press in January which was a good example of the way were were keeping people in Hong Kong informed. I explained the problem of public discussion of preparations for future negotiations. I stressed the need to avoid exaggerated expectations of an early solution, eg when the Prime Minister visits China.

5. A member of the delegation, Miss Vivien Chan, said there was a need to reassure the 20 to 36 year olds that they had a future in Hong Kong in the near future, failing which they would become a serious social problem. This I accepted.

6.

We agreed that the delegation would not disclose the substance of our talk to the press.

24 and 240 qiş

7.

I have telegraphed a similar summary to Hong Kong.

8.

See fr.

The delegation are seeing a number of MPs. This may produce some PQS.

22 April 1982

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Hong Kong and General Department

R D Clift

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