SIR NICHOLAS BONSOR
UNCLASSIFIED
1.
It would be possible to amend the agreement before 1997 if it was found to be unworkable in any degree.
(Hong Kong press summary 4 October).
2.
British public would not welcome large number of immigrants from Hong Kong, but would accept plan to issue Hong Kong British passport holders with special travel document if this did not extend their present rights [to settle in Britain].
Parliament might defer its debate if local residents have strong reservations about the agreement or if six weeks not long enough to collect opinions.
(GIST 4 October).
3.
Imperative that Hong Kong be represented on the Joint Liaison Group. Optimistic about persuading China to accept this point, as China wished to set up the group under terms acceptable to Britain. All British members of JLG should gradually be replaced by local representatives.
X
Western-style democratic system might not be suitable for Hong Kong.
Draft agreement best possible solution for the people of Hong Kong. (Hong Kong press conference: Additional Roundup/GIST 11 October).
SIR PAUL BRYAN
Britain could not
could not offer much help to those who did not want to remain in Hong Kong.
1.
Agreement would have a smooth passage in Parliament.
(Hong Kong press telegram 1 October).
Amendments could be made after further consultation between UK
and China.
2.
(GIST 4 October).
UNCLASSIFIED
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