TNAG-1263-FCO40-1606-Parliamentary-contacts-on-the-future-of-Hong-Kong-1983 — Page 100

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BRITISH SELL OUT

CONFIDENTIAL

11. Any such suggestions are harmful and untrue. We have been

trying and will continue to try throughout he talks to obtain the best possible deal for Hong Kong which will preserve its prosperity and stability. We are unwavering in our aim to seek a settlement acceptable not only to Britain and China but also to Hong Kong.

DIFFERENCE OF HMG'S APPROACH COMPARED WITH FALKLANDS?

12.

J

It is wrong to compare the Hong Kong question with the

Falklands. The circumstances are very different. In the case of

Hong Kong there is an agreed common aim: the maintenance of

Hong Kong's stability and prosperity. This is the basis for the talks and gives grounds for confidence that a satisfactory negotiated settlement can be reached. The question of confrontation

with China does not arise.

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CHINESE STATEMENTS AND PROPAGANDA

13. We have of course seen a number of reports by Chinese public figures on Chinese views an Hong Kong. We are well aware of the main line of the Chinese Governemnts thinking. In our talks in Peking, both sides have outlined their positions. There is much exploration still to be done and we do not regard the outcome of the talks as prejudged by anything said outside them.

CHINES

HAVE HMG PROTESTED TO CHINESE GOVERNEMNT ABOUT THEIR PROPAGANDA?

;)

14. We have made clear that statements outside the negotiations.can be misleading.

WHY ARE THE BRITISH SIDE SILENT IN THE FACE OF CHINESE STATEMENTS?

15. We do not intend to be diverted into negotiation through the

That would not be in the interests of a helpful solution.

media.

CONFIDENTIAL