4The latest round, on 22/23 February was described by
both sides as useful and constructive. The next round
16.17.
be on on -/-March.
[My impression is that Talks are proceeding in a good
atmosphere and covering much detailed ground. Both
sides are continuing to look realistically at the Hong
Kong question from every angle in order to see how the
future stability and prosperity of the territory, the
agreed common aim of the talks, might best be
willing to consider maintained. We for our part are [receptive to any
in attaining the objective, would
arrangements which, would ensure a stable and prosperous
future and] be acceptable to Parliament, China and the
' and at would possesino people of Hong Kong. The Government is making a
ensure contrainding i Hong King's structures and suplems.
particular point of keeping in close touch with opinion
in Hong Kong, notably through the Governor and his
Executive Council.
No.
Planie
Stay belled to
chhage - m) minte y 23/2
блемы
Our aim
-
and that of the Chinese
—
is to achieve a
satisfactory negotiated settlement. Our mutual good
relations will help us to do so. We are proceeding with
the talks as quickly as we can, but no overall
timetable has been set for them. The overriding
consideration must be to reach the right settlement.
But as your Lordships know the Government is committed
to allowing Parliament to give its views in due course
on the arrangements negotiated with the Chinese
refere 12072.
7
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