TNAG-1748-FCO40-2467-Visit-by-Sir-Geoffrey-Howe--Secretary-of-State-for-Foreign-a-1988 — Page 147

CONFIDENTIAL

Vietnamese Government have a heavy responsibility for their tragedy and despair. The whole international community, including its allies, must join in urging the Vietnamese Government to create conditions in which its people will not be compelled to leave, and those who have left can safely return.

6.

At same time I hope I have been able to reassure people about the strength of Britain's commitment to Hong Kong and to the full and faithful implementation of Joint Declaration. There is much in which we can take pride and confidence.

The solid achievements of the Joint Liaison Group. The smooth implementation of the Joint Declaration. The White Paper on representative government, which marked a major step forward in Hong Kong's constitutional development. The continuing success of Hong Kong's economy and

trade.

7.

Greatly impressed by calibre of the territory's

administration. Governor uniquely qualified to lead it forward in

tackling the important tasks which lie ahead.

CONFIDENTIAL