TNAG-1892-FCO40-2685-Visits-by-Sir-Geoffrey-Howe-and-by-Douglas-Hurd--Secretaries-1989 — Page 62

NESAAT ( 2 )

CHINESE ALLEGATIONS ABOUT HONG KONG AS BASE FOR SUBVERSION

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Absolutely no question of HMG or Hong Kong Government allowing Hong Kong to be used for subversion against mainland.

But Hong Kong is governed by laws which provide for certain

freedoms. Would be wrong to prevent activities within the law.

have emphasised importance of Hong Kong people exercising their

freedoms in a responsible manner.

But

WORK OF JOINT LIAISION GROUP

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Progress on concrete issues in Joint Liaison Group is important

means of boosting confidence in Hong Kong

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JLG met in London on 27/29 September.

exchange of views.

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Comprehensive and frank

Both sides reaffirmed continued commitment to Joint Declaration.

Agreed to meet again on 5/8 December in Hong Kong. Our aim now to

return to normal business as soon as possible.

CHINESE BLAME US FOR SUSPENDING WORK OF JOINT LIAISON GROUP

It would not have been understood in Hong Kong if we had

continued normal business as if tragic events of June had not

happened. Meeting in July would not have been productive.

Postponement in no way a breach of Joint Declaration.