TNAG-1373-FCO40-1819-Ministerial-visits-from-the-UK-to-Hong-Kong-1985 — Page 16

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NOTES FOR USE WITH EXCO

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1.

feel

As I said in my message to you on 10 September, privileged to have been appointed Minister of State responsible for

Hong Kong's affairs at this crucial time. Looking forward to

working with EXCO and delighted to have had the chance to meet you and to attend an EXCO meeting today.

Reaffirm to you HMG's determination that there will be no

reduction in our commitment to Hong Kong over next 12 years.

3.

issues

Much work to be done in that time to ensure successful

implementation of agreement. Need to discuss wide range of

with Chinese, taking careful note of your advice on these issues

first. EXCO played a crucial role in the progress of the

negotiations in acting as the mouthpiece of Hong Kong opinion.

importance of this role is in no way diminished now that the Agreement has been successfully concluded.

4.

The

Just like to make two points on specific issues. On

consitutional development, HMG has no doctrinaire Westminster model

that it would like to see implanted in Hong Kong.

We fully appreciate that, given Chinese suspicions on one side and the need to develop durable systems of government which will ensure stability. of prosperity on the other, a hybrid system, based on Hong Kong's

existing tried structures, will be necessary. There will be a vocal minority at Westminster who will over the next few years demand

instant direct elections, but confident that the majority will recognise the need for cautious development of the existing system. Would expect Parliament to take its lead very much from the wishes

of the majority in Hong Kong.

5.

Secondly, nationality.

Very grateful for your advice on the

draft Order in Council. Know that this is an emotional issue in Hong Kong and an area where HMG's own policy requirements are often resented in Hong Kong. HMG have to balance strong Chinese sensititivies with Hong Kong requirements, and therefore to keep strictly within terms of agreement. Also would be unable to deny

CONFIDENTIAL