COHAEP
CONFIDENTIAL
VISIT TO HONG KONG BY MR EDWARD HEATH
POINTS TO MAKE
Understand that you will be in Hong Kong on date of publication of White Paper (10 February).
1.
2.
As you will have gathered from debate, we are not convinced by case for introduction of direct elections in 1988. But believe we can respond to general sense of debate by setting out clearly a timetable for progress.
3.
Clear in my mind that this more measured approach best meets interests of Hong Kong. No doubt that views there on direct
elections are very sharply divided. Substantial and influential
body of opinion favours caution. Includes significant proportion of Councillors and District Board members (many of whom themselves are directly elected). Important that we should not be misled by force of Martin Lee's campaign. Did not believe he is representative.
4.
Only sensible that we also take account of Chinese dimension. Position of Chinese Government did not come across clearly in debate. But they have made it clear in public and private that they would have deep misgivings about direct elections in 1988, before formal promulgation of Basic Law. On the other hand, quite ready to see elections introduced as early as 1991.
5. If we are looking for durable arrangements, introduced in circumstances which maintain confidence, must take this consideration seriously. This factor instinctively understood by
many Hong Kong people. They would not favour a course which led
directly to confrontation with China.
6. White Paper marks end of protracted debate, which has had
unsettling effect in Hong Kong. Suggest it is in interests of all in Hong Kong that this phase is now brought to an end: that all
factions accept White Paper decisions and co-operate to make them work.
CONFIDENTIAL
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.