TNAG-1263-FCO40-1606-Parliamentary-contacts-on-the-future-of-Hong-Kong-1983 — Page 149

I

c) Page 2: I am not sure that it is a good idea to

mention "secret negotiations", even if they did

subsequently Leak. Might I suggest "important

discussions" or some similar toning down? There are

some who might pounce on your reference and demand to

know more!

ed d) Page 2: I wonder whether the phrase "is tempting |

to take it back" might not be softened to read "wishes

recover control over, it"?

to

e) Page 3:

The Chinese still do not appear to

understand that HMG do not take revenue from Hong

Kong nor do we control or benefit from the Hong Kong.

Government's reserves. It would be helpful to us if

you touched on this... The economic advantages which

China obtains, from Hong Kong at present far outweigh

those obtained by Britain.

}

ì

f) One additional point you might like to consider

bringing in is that whatever is decided eventually, the

best possible guarantees that life will go on much as, now

must be obtained for the people of Hong Kong. In addition investors in Hong Kong will want guarantees

that the systems there will continue at least for a

considerable period. Without guarantees there will be

no confidence and without confidence there will be no e no

Hong Kong dollar.

Once again I am

I hope the above points are helpful.

grateful to you for letting us see your draft and I

Look forward to seeing the article in print. I am

returning your draft with this letter.