TNAG-1568-FCO40-2134-Future-of-Hong-Kong-nationality-and-passports-Hong-Kong-(Br-1986 — Page 112

fermer (97

DSR 11C

approach, with due regard to the sensitivities involved.

13. The British Government discusses the future of

Gibraltar with a fellow member of the European Community

and of NATO. Whereas Argentina launched an unprovoked

military attack in 1982, the Spaniards are committed to

pursuing their claim by peaceful means. Other essential

differences are that Spain recognises the validity of the

British title to the Rock under the Treaty of Utrecht,

whereas Argentina refuses to acknowledge British

sovereignty over the Falklands.

Spain's attitude to the

rights of the inhabitants is also markedly different.

Furthermore, the British Government acknowledge that the

Treaty of Utrecht gives Spain first refusal if Gibraltar

ever ceases to be British. Against this background, the

British Government have been prepared to discuss

sovereignty with Spain in good faith.

people of Hill-

The inhabitants were

14. In the case of Hong Kong the lease on 92% of the

area was due to expire in 1997.

consulted about the arrangements

Government for the future of the

reached with the Chinese

most Territory and expressed

MMG the themselves overwhelmingly content with them. All parties

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as

share the aim of maintaining Hong Kong's stability and

its people

prosperity and of enabling the inhabitants to plan peacefully and confidently for theirfutureth

confidence.

Relations with Argentina

15. The British Government have proposed setting aside

the issue of the Falkland Islands, on which positions are

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