TNAG-1343-FCO40-1773-Visit-by-Margaret-Thatcher--UK-Prime-Minister--to-Beijing-fo-1984 — Page 200

CONFIDENTIAL

strongest possible representations to the Chinese Government in

order to seek a remedy.

JOINT LIAISON GROUP

HONG KONG OFFICIAL AND UNOFFICIAL REPRESENTATION

8. It is clear from the text of Annex II that each side will

determine the composition of its own delegation. Our delegation will include officials from the Hong Kong Government. Beyond that

there will be scope for the views of the people of Hong Kong to be

taken fully into account.

9. [If pressed on Unofficial representation.] The Joint Liaison Group will be a governmental body staffed by officials on both sides. But there will be all the usual ways in which Hong Kong people can be consulted and their views taken into account.

BASIC LAW

HONG KONG PARTICIPATION IN DRAFTING

10. Drafting of Basic Law is a matter for the Chinese Government. They have made it clear however that people of Hong Kong will be

consulted. I have no doubt that the Chinese Government are aware of

the strong views of Hong Kong people on this subject.

UK COMMITMENT TO HONG KONG UP TO 1997

11. The agreement provides for continuing British administrative responsibility for Hong Kong up to 1997. We shall continue to discharge this responsibility fully and effectively.

NATIONALITY

INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION OF SAR AND NEW-STYLE PASSPORTS?

12.

Both SAR and new-style British passports will contain clear

reference to the holder's right of abode in Hong Kong SAR. SAR government will be assisted or authorised by Central People's

Government to conclude visa abolition agreements. HMG will do all

they can to secure for holders of new-style British passports the

s ame access to other countries as that enjoyed at

enjoyed at present by holders

of BDTC passports. Every reason to be confident of international

acceptance of these passports.

CONFIDENTIAL