TNAG-1320-FCO40-1726-Future-of-Hong-Kong-assessment-of-public-opinion-1984 — Page 12

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Sir P Cradock

Private Secretary

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FROM:

R D CLIFT

DATE: 23 February 1984

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Dr Wilson, SEBECEIVED IN

PAR 1984

RISIN

FUTURE OF HONG KONG:

ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC OPINION

1 I attach a telegram from Hong Kong giving an assessment of public opinion in Hong Kong in light of recent speculation about the future of Hong Kong. There are some important points to

note:

(a)

(b)

(c)

(a)

(e)

2.

most people in Hong Kong now accept inevitability of resumption of Chinese sovereignty in 1997. There is an air of resignation, though not of satisfaction;

they are perplexed at HMG's failure to comment on the talks in view of Chinese propaganda and British press stories;

at senior levels very few people place confidence in China's assurances of continuity. People who cannot leave hope that HMG will find a way of keeping the Chinese to their promise;

at lower levels there is less discussion;

despite the uncertainty, economic indicators have shown improvement.

This reinforces our opinion that the majority of Hong Kong people would at least tolerate a return of sovereignty to China, if we can build in sufficient assurances.

3.

The Hong Kong telegram has been sent to Singapore for Mr Luce's party to pick up.

Бир

23 February 1984

R D Clift

Hong Kong Department

SECRET