TNAG-1258-FCO40-1591-Third-countries-and-the-future-of-Hong-Kong-1984 — Page 190

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the British and Chinese Governments had taken place when Lord Carrington visited China in April 1981, and during Mr Atkins' visit

(as Lord Privy Seal) in January 1982. The process of consultation

was stepped up during the Prime Minister's visit to China in September 1982, when it was anounced that the two Governments would hold talks through diplomatic channels with the common aim of

maintaining the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong.

12. Meetings in Peking to follow up the Prime Minister's visit

through diplomatic channels began soon afterwards and are

continuing. On 1 July the following statement was issued in Peking,

London and Hong Kong:

"Following the discussions between the leaders of the two countries

in September 1982 and subsequent useful exchanges, it has been

agreed that a second phase of the talks on the future of Hong Kong

will begin in Peking on 12 July 1983."

13. Six rounds of talks have now taken place in this second phase.

At the conclusion of the latest round (14/15 November), the

following joint statement was issued:

"The Chinese and British sides continued useful and constructive

talks on the Hong Kong question on 14 and 15 November. It was

agreed that the seventh round of talks would be held on 7-8 December

in Peking."

14. The content of these talks is confidential. The extent and level of Hong Kong's participation on the British side is decided in accordance with the requirements of the talks but the Governor of Hong Kong is being consulted throughout. He has participated in all

the formal rounds to date. As the Prime Minister made clear in Hong

Kong in September 1982, the views of the people of Hong Kong are being taken into account.

15. HMG's aim in the talks is to reach a settlement acceptable to the British and Chinese Governments and to the people of Hong Kong. We are not making any rigid preconditions as to how this might be

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