TNAG-1326-FCO40-1738-Future-of-Hong-Kong-Parliamentary-debates-1984 — Page 48

CONFIDENTIAL

19. Another concern raised in the Assessment Office report is about the role of the Joint Liaison Group. Fears have

been expressed that the Joint Liaison Group might interfere in the administration of Hong Kong. In my view this fear,

although understandable, is unfounded. The agreement states explicitly that the group will be an organ of liaison and not an organ of power. It will take no part in the administration of Hong Kong. The two Governments are agreed that it is the British Government that will remain

fully responsible for the administration of Hong Kong up to 1

July 1997.

20.

The government attach the highest importance to

the Joint Liaison Group as a means of achieving the necessary

close cooperation with the Chinese Government over Hong Kong

in the next twelve years. I can also assure Noble Lords that

the Government will ensure that the interests of Hong Kong are properly represented in the group by involving officials from the Hong Kong government in the British delegation.

CONFIDENTIAL