TNAG-1254-FCO40-1587-Third-countries-and-the-future-of-Hong-Kong-1983 — Page 16

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HONG KONG: CALL BY AUSTRALIAN DHC ON MR GIFFARD, 14 SEPTEMBER 1983

Mr Giffard spoke on three points previously raised by Mr Robertson on the lines of my minute of 14 September.

1.

Mr Robertson asked in what terms the Chinese had put their plan to us. Mr Giffard said they had made points similar to their public position, ie Hong Kong would be a Special Admini- strative Region, with considerable autonomy.

2.

After some discussion on the nature of a Special Administrative Region, Mr Giffard explained why, in our view, the Chinese plan would not work. There was a need for an insulator. At present the best insulator was British administration. We were trying to educate the Chinese.

3.

Mr Robertson expressed scepticism as to whether this would work. Surely we were getting nowhere.

4.

Mr Giffard said that the Chinese did seem to understand more of the complexity of Hong Kong. This could still affect their readiness to be flexible in discussing guarantees.

5.

6.

Mr Robertson expressed appreciation for the briefings Mr Giffard had given. Canberra were pretty demanding on the subject. He added that they had made soundings of their own among members of EXCO and LEGCO in Hong Kong. It was clear that they were being told exactly the same amount as we were telling the Australians.

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CODE 18.77

15 September 1983

R D Clift

Hong Kong Department

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MKK0405

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15 SEP 1083

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