(c)
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as far as possible, to reassure Hong Kong people by
demonstrating HMG's determination to stand by Hong Kong and
to do all they can to safeguard the territory's future;
FORMAT OF THE BRIEFS
4.
A comprehensive list of briefs is attached immediately below.
The briefing consists of individual briefs for each of Mr Maude's meetings in Hong Kong, containing notes for statements and
checklists of points to make; a comprehensive press brief; and
detailed background briefs on all the key issues.
THE ISSUES
5. Subject to any unexpected last minute developments, the visit
will be dominated by two issues: nationality and Vietnamese boat people. These are covered comprehensively in background briefs (a)
and (b). On nationality Mr Maude will need to give an explanation
for the delay in an announcement of a nationality package, which has been expected since the end of July. Although informed Hong Kong
opinion is aware that there will be no early announcement, Mr Maude
is certain to be pressed on both the timing and content of the
package. On Vietnamese boat people, local demands for mandatory repatriation and the ending of first asylum are steadily growing. Mr Maude will be pressed hard on mandatory repatriation and on HMG's
financial contribution to the running of the camps.
·
The other main issue will be that of Hong Kong's Constitutional Development (background brief (c)). The emergence of a virtual consensus on Hong Kong's future political structure was an encouraging sign: but the picture has been substantially complicated by the (Chinese inspired) proposal for a bicameral legislature. Mr Maude may be asked to comment on this, as well as on plans for Hong Kong's pre 1997 Constitutional development. Discussion of the political structure has overshadowed other aspects of the Basic Law
background brief (d), although human rights (background brief (e) remains an important preoccupation).
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