RELATIONS WITH CHINA
General
CONFIDENTIAL
Have no desire to see recent period of difficulty in Sino British
relations continue. Need now is for calm and constructive exchange
on government to government channels.
- In Hong Kong's interests that we bring this period of public
disagreement to an end. Helps no one and confidence in territory.
- In this context, Committee will be aware that Joint Liaison Group
has met again in Hong Kong [to be supplemented after JLG Meeting?.
- Contact with the Chinese Government over Hong Kong entirely
consistent with Madrid measures adopted by EC. Those measures remain in force. We and our partners are keeping them under close
review.
- But we have never sought to break off relations with China. We
have always recognised the need to stay in touch at a high level over Hong Kong eg meeting between my predecessor and his Chinese counterpart in Paris and New York.
Chinese Complaints about Subversion
- HMG and HKG have no intention of allowing Hong Kong to be used as
base for subversion against PRC.
But HKG must operate within own laws, which provide for certain
freedoms. Crucial to Hong Kong's stability and prosperity that
these laws be observed.
Governor has urged Hong Kong people to exercise those freedoms
responsibly. HMG entirely endorse that advice.
NESACR (6)
CONFIDENTIAL
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.