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"Acknowledgement" of Chinese position on sovereignty.
Means simply that we "are aware of" Chinese position. Should not be misconstrued.
7.
Chinese threat to make announcement by 1984
8. A number of senior Chinese have taken this line in the past, either publicly or in private. Similar line taken by press spokesman of Chinese MFA on 9 November in Peking. Perhaps partially
motivated by wish to clarify Chinese position. Recent press speculation that 1984 "deadline" had been relaxed following remarks
made by Vice Foreign Minister Qian Qichen to Japanee reporters.
Statement does not in our view explicitly rule out a continuation of discussions after September 1984.
Significance of "British link" for Hong Kong's success
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9. As Prime Minister made clear in BBC World Service "Phone-in", 30
October, British administrative systems prevailing in Hong Kong have
made major contribution to its success. But Essential point is to
ensure continuity of Hong Kong's stability and prosperity. This is
basis for Sino-British talks. We are sincerely receptive to any
proposals that would maintain stability and prosperity in way
acceptable to Parliament, China and people of Hong Kong. Within
these criteria our approach is flexible.
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