TNAG-1253-FCO40-1586-Third-countries-and-the-future-of-Hong-Kong-1983 — Page 207

FUTURE OF HONG KONG

POINTS TO MAKE [DEFENSIVE]

1.

Prime Minister agreed with Chinese leaders last September to enter talks on the future of Hong Kong with the common aim of maintaining Hong Kong's stability and prosperity.

2.

Meetings to follow up Prime Minister's visit have begun and are continuing through diplomatic channels in Peking. Believe that solution satisfactory to all three parties

concerned will be found. Content of the talks confidential. No

timetable set.

3.

Meanwhile important for all concerned that nothing is

said or done to damage confidence in Hong Kong.

4.

The views of the people of Hong Kong will be taken into

account. The Governor is being consulted throughout and will participate in the talks as and when necessary.

5.

[IF PRESSED ON SOVEREIGNTY] British and Chinese

positions clear but, given our agreed common objective, we

believe satisfactory arrangements can be worked out.