TNAG-1468-FCO40-1997-Visits-by-members-of-the-Office-of-the-Unofficial-Members-of-1986 — Page 120

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views.

Although Miss Tam was being briefed by the Hong Kong Government, he was surprised that she sometimes took a line at variance with what he believed to be HKG views: this perplexed him, and might well mislead the Chinese side

as well.

4. You and I discussed this point briefly. We agreed that I should write to Mr Peirce in Hong Kong, suggesting that the Hong Kong Government might wish to consider giving Mr Lee slightly more comprehensive briefing if

if they thought that he was discreet enough to make diplomatic use of it.

Mr

5. Mr Lee's second theme was criticism of HMG and the HKG

An for not fighting hard enough for Hong Kong's interests. agreement had been achieved which gave Hong Kong the real

But now HMG and the HKG autonomy.

were only hope of concerned about bringing about convergence in a

way which

caused the fewest waves in Peking.

Lee said rather

sadly that the people of Hong Kong needed leadership: they had to be helped. They were not accustomed to speaking up for themselves. HMG and the Hong Kong Government should

their behalf.

two speak up strongly in Peking Governments should also encourage the emergence of a more Almost all the Unofficials were outspoken political class.

on

The

no more than yes men: they were only concerned not to rock the boat. HMG and the HKG should bring forward politicians of a more independent frame of mind, and should actively encourage the rest to speak out on behalf of Hong Kong.

6.

summarise the main

with Mr Lee in a letter

You and I agreed that I should points from our two conversations

to Mr Peirce.

29 July 1986

Cotten

CO Hum

Hong Kong Department

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