TNAG-1240-FCO40-1553-Future-of-Hong-Kong-1983 — Page 118

Rhodes' party.

CONFIDENTIAL

DSR 11C

HMG.

5. Chinese leaders are inclined to believe that any

views on Hong Kong's future expressed by prominent UK

personalities represent at least in part, the views of

Any "solution" on Hong Kong proferred by Lord

Rhodes might therefore be misconstrued. This could have

a damaging effect on our talks with the Chinese which are

P both difficult and delicate. In addition, the inclusion

of Mr Goodlad in Lord Rhodes' party would undoubtedly

seem to give credence to any Chinese theory that Lord

Rhodes' "solution" or "solutions" to Hong Kong

represented an official British Government position.

6. We have learnt from the Whips' Office that Mr Goodlad

whether

has not yet decided to accompany Lord Rhodes. He

understands, however, that should he wish to do so he

would need to consult the FCO.

CONFIDENTIAL