desirable at an appropriate time.
PARTICIPATION BY OTHER HONG KONG RESIDENTS
6.
The composition of the British team is flexible, but the present pattern, involving the Governor and the Political Adviser, is likely to continue.
HAVE HMG CONCEDED SOVEREIGNTY AND/OR ADMINISTRATION?
7. No concessions have been made on either side. In due course it will be for this House to give its views on
the acceptibility of arrangements made with the Chinese Government
covering Hong Kong's future.
WOULD IT NOT BE MORE REALISTIC TO CONCEDE NOW ON THE QUESTION OF
CHINA'S SOVEREIGNTY/RIGHT OF ADMINISTRATION?
8.
Each side is aware of the other's position. We aim, in detailed discussions with the Chinese Governant, to look at the Hong Kong question realistically from every angle. We are willing to consider any proposals intended to safeguard Hong Kong's continuing stability and prosperity, which would be acceptable to Britain, China and the people of HongKong. Within these criteria, are not inflexible in our approach.
★ 1997 DEADLINE SET BY CHINESE "
We
9. Of course 1997 is a key date because of the New Territories lease. That is precisely why we and the Chinese are holding talks. But the outcome must not be prejudged.
FAILURE TO REACH AGREEMENT WITH THE CHINESE
10.
to
That is a very pesimistic view. The agreed common aim is maintain Hong Kong's stability and prosperity and we mean to achieve an agreement. Our current good relations with China will help us to
do 80.
We both have a clear interest in a prosperous and stable future for Hong Kong..
CONFIDENTIAL
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