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MKK040/2
RECEIVED IN REGISTRY NO. 51
12 JUL 1983
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The Grzy quie Gorem
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FUTURE OF HONG KONG
TALKS ANNOUNCEMENT ON 1 JULY
REGISTRY
Action Taken
DESK OFFE
INDEX
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AGREED LINE FOR USE WITH THE PRESS IN PEKING AND LONDON
Q.1
A.
Q2
A
What is meant by 'second phase'?
The British Government have been having important and useful exchanges with the Chinese since last September. A point has
now been reached where the talks can move into a new and more
detailed phase. The Governor of Hong Kong will now participate
from time to time as appropriate.
What has brought about this move to a second phase?
I cannot reveal the content of the talks with the Chinese
Q3 Has Britain conceded sovereignty?
A
No. The position of the British Government is well known.
Q4
A.
Q5
A
Is there a timetable for the talks?
No timetable has been set for the talks as a whole and I cannot
predict how long they will take, The British and Chinese Governments are getting on with them as quickly as they can.
What exactly is the Governor's position? Will he take part in all future talks?
The Governor is taking part in this session as a member of the British team. The team is headed by the British Ambassador in Peking. There is no hard and fast rule about how often the Governor will take part. He will attend as appropriate.
Q6
Is there any agenda for the talks?
A
I cannot reveal the content of the talks.
Q7
A
Is the timing of the EXCO Unofficials visit to London significant? The visit provides the Unofficials with an opportunity to meet the New Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and the Minister responsible for Hong Kong and to see the Prime Minister again. It is part of the continuing process of consultation on the future. In the circumstances it is also timely that the new phase of talks is soon to get under way, but there is no direct connection between the events.
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