CONFIDENTIAL
quite different. Hong Kong people who are British Dependent
Territories Citizens on the date of Hong Kong's change of status will retain an appropriate status after that date which will entitle them to continue to use British passports.
The two cases are different for historical, legal and other reasons.
6.
RELEVANCE FOR POLICY ON FALKALNDS?
•
The two cases are different for historical, legal and other reasons. Each case must be treated individually. In the case of Hong Kong negotiations were inevitable because of the expiry of the New Territories lease. Talks on the Falkland Islands were in progress when Argentine invaded. The Berne talks broke down when Argentina did not respect the agreed basis for them and introduced a new condition about sovereignty.
7.
RELEVANCE FOR POLICY ON GIBRALTAR?
The two cases are different for historical legal and other reasons. In the case of Hong Kong negotiations were inevitable because of the expiry of the New Territories lease. In the case of Gibraltar we have reached agreement with the Spanish Government on the framework for managing our differences in the Liaison statement of 1980.
8. THE TEST OF ACCEPTABILITY IS RIGGED?
No. It is being conducted by a separate office of the Hong Kong Government, removed from the normal machinery of Government and responsible only to the Governor. Two independent Monitors have been appointed by HMG to report on whether the Assessment Office has operated properly, accurately and impartially.
9. WHAT IF THE HONG KONG PEOPLE REJECT THE AGREEMENT? Hypothetical question. HMG are explaining very fully to the
Hong Kong people why they are commending the agreement, why, against the background of Hong Kong's position, they consider it a good one and why in their view it should be accepted.
10. FUTURE HONG KONG/TAIWAN LINKS?
Agreement provides for the Hong Kong SAR to maintain and develop economic and trade relations with all states and regions.
CONFIDENTIAL
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.