TNAG-1624-FCO40-2238-Relations-between-Hong-Kong-and-China-1987 — Page 110

BACKGROUND

TIBET

CONFIDENTIAL

1. Following a demonstration in Lhasa on 27 September, a more serious demonstration by over 1,000 people on 1 October led to rioting and the burning of a police station. Official figures put the casualities at 6 dead and 16 injured, but unofficial figures suggest 12 dead and more than 50 injured (Peking telno 1679 of 5 October). The Chinese authorities have moved in police and, after expelling foreign journalists on 9 October, military reinforcements (Peking telno 1725 of 8 October).

2. PRC has consistently taken the view that Tibet is an

After the invasion in 1950 and integral part of China. the 1959 uprising, China made efforts to eradicate the "feudal theocracy" and Tibetan feelings of independence. Cultural and religious persecution was particularly severe in the Cultural Revolution. However, since 1980 the Chinese have given Tibetans a greater say in their affairs, repaired and reopened some temples, granted a greater degree of religious freedom, substantially increased development assistance and opened Tibet to the outside. Earlier this year it was announced that from July 1988 all officials in Tibet would have to be able to speak Tibetan. This is a unique concession by the Chinese authorities.

NB8AAV

CONFIDENTIAL