SECRET
Six
Next meeting / Deum
(ii) Second, more detailed phase of talks began July. Five rounds
19/20 60 5 since. Meetings 19/20 October useful and constructive.
14/15 November.
Governor of Hong Kong participating since July.
(iii) We aim to seek settlement acceptable to Britain, China and people of Hong Kong. Their views taken fully into account. In close consultation through Governor with Hong Kong's Executive Council (EXCO). Their role central. Governor and Unofficial members of EXCO visited London again 6-8 October. (iv) Central issue: to devise package inspiring confidence. agreed common aim, confident this possible.
Grateful your
(v) Meanwhile important nothing said or done to damage confidence in Hong Kong or atmosphere of talks.
understanding.
(vi) Chinese propaganda floats Hong Kong as SAR of China, with considerable autonomy and lifestyle basically unchanged.
Evidence
Given
3
(vii) Most Hong Kong people sceptical of SAR idea. suggests details rudimentary and basis for confidence not.grasped by Chinese. Investors need effective guarantees against Chinese interference. This at present provided by British administration.
(viii) We do not obtain revenue from Hong Kong nor have we colonialist aspirations. We want best possible deal for HongKong
people.
BACKGROUND
2.
The Prime Minister is aware of the background.
NOT FOR USE
3. With the Prime Minister's agreement we keep the Australians, Canadians and New Zealanders generally informed about the talks at a high level, though to a slightly lesser extent than we do the Americans. The New Zealanders and Australians were brought up to date during Mr Whitney's visit to the South Pacific in
2
SECRET
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.