TNAG-2054-FCO40-2932-Political-activism-accusations-of-subversion-in-Hong-Kong-1990 — Page 14

MR MAUDE'S VISIT TO CHINA,

24

27 JULY

HONG KONG: SUBVERSION

Defensive Points to Make

- The British and Hong Kong Governments have no intention of allowing Hong Kong to be used as a base for subversive activities against the PRC. We have made this clear publicly on a number of occasions.

Administration of Hong Kong until 1997 is responsibility

of British authorities. Will act within framework of Hong

Kong's own laws which guarantee certain freedoms. But HKG

will continue to have a prudent regard to the special

circumstances of Hong Kong and interests and concerns of the

Chinese Government.

- Governor has urged Hong Kong people to exercise their freedoms responsibly and not to get involved in the

internal affairs of China. Believe Hong Kong people have long recognised importance of that. Events in immediate aftermath of June not typical of Hong Kong. Emotional

reaction which has now abated. Hong Kong people returned to political calm and pragmatism which has always characterised the community.

There is evidence of Hong Kong Government's readiness to

take action within its laws:

-

Arrested members of the April 5th Action Group cutside their national day reception.

- Refused permission for a permanent site for a replica

status of democracy to be erected in Hong Kong.

MUKAJN/2

CONFIDENTIAL