OUT TELEGRAM (CONT)
Classification and Caveats
SECRET
IMMEDIATE DESKBY
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22 (b)
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22 123
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of Hong Kong. At present, continuity is assured by British
administration. But in 1997 Britain's lease of 92% of the
territory comes to an end. It is in those circumstances that
it becomes necessary and indeed possible
Make
to visualise
other ways in which continuity can be assured.
unquote.
The general point is covered in Notes for Supplementaries
paras 16
17. If specific reference is made to para 4 of the
speech, we suggest the following line: quote
G
This passage of the speech is no more than a realistic
description of Hong Kong's situation and its implications for
the negotiations. We have said consistently that we are
willing to consider any measures which would safeguard Hong
Kong's continuity, stability and prosperity, and which would
be acceptable to Britain, China and the people of Hong Kong.
In due course it will be for Parliament to decide for our
part on the acceptability of arrangements made with the
Chinese Government concerning Hong Kong's future, taking into
account the views of Hong Kong. (if pressed) No concessions
have been made by either side which would anticipate the
nature of any final agreement. unquote
Crucial point in talks.
See MIFT.
Discussion in Peking. We suggest the line that the Secretary of State will be discussing all aspects of Hong Kong's future
but that they content of his talks must remain confidential.
Participation in Secretary of State's delegation. We shall
say that the Secretary of State will be accompanied by the
Governor (our Tel No
refers), but that other details of
the Delegation have not yet been decided.
Dates.
We shall simply say that exact dates are still under
discussion.
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33 HOWE
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