TNAG-1256-FCO40-1589-Third-countries-and-the-future-of-Hong-Kong-1983 — Page 50

389

CODE 18-77

CONFIDENTIAL

Miss Roberts, CCD (E301A)

files

Reference

(465)

MKK04015

RECEIVED IN REGISTRY

? 6 JCT 1983

DESK OFFICER

INDEX

PA

BRIEFING FOR COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY ASSOCIATION ANNUAL CONFERENCE, NAIROBI, 23 OCTOBER 5 NOVEMBER 1983 : FUTURE OF HONG KONG

1.

REGISTRY

Action Taken

हतब

I explained in para 3 of my minute of 10 October that we might need to update the briefing we had provided on this subject to take account of the Sino-British talks held in Peking on 19/20 October.

2. New fourth and fifth sentences in para 3 of Mr Whitney's confidential "Line to Take " should read as follows:

"Both sides agreed that this was useful and constructive. Next round will be held on 14/15 November, again in Peking."

The rest of the paragraph, beginning "Chinese delegation" etc, should stand as drafted.

3. A new para 13 should be added to the "Line to Take" to read as follows:

"On 15 October, the Hong Kong Government took certain measures to stabilise the Hong Kong Dollar. Key element was indirect pegging of Hong Kong Dollar to US Dollar at rate of HS$7.80 = US$1, and abolition of local tax paid on Hong Kong Dollar deposits. Currency and stock market responding well."

4. At this stage it is not practicable or necessary to update the unclassified brief prepared for use by all members of the UK Delegation. But I suggest that in the copies carried by Mr Whitney's party the existing para 5 should be replaced by the following:

"As part of the second phase, talks were held in Peking on 12/13 July, 25/26 July, 2/3 August, 22/23 September and 19/20 October. The following statement was issued there on " 20 October: "The Chinese and British sides held useful and constructive talks on October 19/20. It was agreed that the next round of talks will be held on November 14/15 in Peking"."

25 October 1983

CONFIDENTIAL

CO Hum

Hong Kong Department (WH306)

233 4381