TNAG-1883-FCO40-2674-Visits-by-Lord-Glenarthur--Minister-of-State-for-Foreign-and-1989 — Page 54

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BULL POINTS AND DEFENSIVE MATERIAL

(i)

SINO/BRITISH/HONG KONG RELATIONS

Hong Kong at heart of our relationship with China. Frequent

contacts with Chinese. Hong Kong always high on our agenda.

Increased contacts between Britain and China and between

Chinese and Hong Kong officials are healthy sign: cordial and

businesslike relations at all levels are a key to confidence and a

successful future.

HMG putting its own interests and its commercial relationship with

China before interests of Hong Kong?

Hong Kong prospers when London and Peking are in harmony.

Converse equally true.

Should not overlook extent of our interests in Hong Kong

only our political interest, but also our massive commercial and

economic stake. And that stake continues to grow.

Will HMG stand up to Chinese interference in Hong Kong?

not

Have never hesitated to take a stand for Hong Kong. History of negotiation and implementation of Joint Declaration has shown tenacious pursuit of Hong Kong's interests.

But public confrontation would not be in Hong Kong's interests.

In any case not a question of one side "standing up" to the other. Both sides recognise they can achieve best results by cooperation. Believe both sides are firmly committed to full and faithful implementation of Joint Declaration.

Overriding need is to lay foundation for future stability and prosperity: cannot be achieved by confrontation. China understands

that as well as we do.