TNAG-1311-FCO40-1673-Future-of-Hong-Kong-1984 — Page 7

SIR P CRADOCK: SUPPLEMENTARIES

1.

Why is Sir P Cradock moving now, rather than after

ratification?

Sir P Cradock held a special appointment as DUS with responsibility

for the Hong Kong negotiations. These negotiations have now been

successfully concluded and so naturally his appointment has now come

to an end. There is much work still to be done, particularly in

connection with legislation and the establishment of the Joint

Liaison Group. But this will be handled by the normal FCO

machinery.

2.

Does this mean that Hong Kong is no longer a priority for HMG?

Certainly not. There is still much work to be done. As the Prime

Minister made clear in Hong Kong the agreement is a beginning not an end. HMG are fully committed to ensuring that the agreement is

scrupulously implemented, and also to the administering Hong Kong

effectively up to 1997.

3.

What experience does Sir W Harding have of Hong Kong?

Sir W Harding has been following the Hong Kong negotiations closely. He visited Hong Kong briefly in November 1984; and expects to pay an extended visit early in 1985.

4. Will Sir P Cradock be a member of the Joint Liaison Group?

The composition of the Joint Liaison Group has not yet been decided.

But it is not envisaged that Sir P Cradock will be a member.

Hong Kong Department

28 December 1984