TNAG-1307-FCO40-1664-Future-of-Hong-Kong-1984 — Page 107

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FROM: R D CLIFT, HKD

DATE: 7 February 1984

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FUTURE OF HONG KONG: CHINESE RELIABILITY

1.

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Mr Thomson, FED News Dept

I have one general observation on the talking points for M Ministers attached to Mr Thomson's minute of 6 February. I

fully agree with the various lines suggested. It is nevertheless important to bear in mind that their use should be carefully tailored to the position which we had reached at any particular time in our negotiations with the Chinese. This applies particularly to the later questions and answers where we giving backing to the Chinese readiness to stand by their commitments to autonomy for Hong Kong. To do this prematurely might risk revealing the basis of our negotiating position by implication.

2.

This would not apply of course if the points were to be used only for confidential briefing by eg of reliable MPs.

7 February 1984

Бир

RD Clift

Hong Kong Department

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Mr Chifr HKD

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