TNAG-1878-FCO40-2669-Student-demonstrations-and-internal-political-situation-in-C-1989 — Page 102

I reminded the Charge of the responsibilities of the

Chinese Government to ensure the safety of British and Hong Kong citizens. I expressed concern at the maltreatment of British journalists, particularly Michael

Fathers of The Independent and Johnathan Mirksy of The Observer. We have since seen disturbing reports of the

ill treatment of Kate Adie of the BBC.

Our Ambassador in Peking and his staff have been

working round the clock to ensure the safety of British

and Hong Kong citizens in Peking and, as far as possible,

in other parts of China. The Embassy have advised British and Hong Kong citizens not to travel to any part of China. They have also advised those who have no pressing need to remain in China to leave immediately.

Our concern to ensure the safety of British and Hong Kong citizens will remain paramount.

Since the Cultural Revolution, there has been a substantial improvement in relations between the United

Kingdom and the People's Republic of China as the Chinese

Government has sought to broaden its contacts with the international community and to introduce economic

and other reforms. Friends of China in this House and

around the world must share the hope that sane and balanced government will be swiftly and securely restored in Peking. In present circumstances, however, there can be no question of continuing normal business with the

Chinese authorities.

Her Majesty's Government have therefore decided on

the following action:

-

all scheduled ministerial exchanges between Britain