TNAG-2180-FCO40-3117-Hong-Kong-nationality-international-support-1990 — Page 62

AR Paul Esq

Hong Kong Dept

FCO

BRITISH EMBASSY

-

35, rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré 75383 Paris Cedex 08

Telephone: 42 66 91 42

Your reference

Our reference

Date 18 April 1990

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Dear Alon

INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT FOR HONG KONG: FRENCH POSITION

1.

Following our telecon just ended, here is the text we are suggesting for a defensive reply if Mr Maude is asked to clarify precisely what he believes the French position to be:

"We have been in regular touch with the French on this subject. They have helpfully indicated that, along with other countries, they are taking measures to reassure essential staff working for international companies in Hong Kong. We are not aware that any French scheme is finalised, and it will be for the French Government to makes its details public as they judge appropriate. As to the number of Hong Kong Chinese affected by such a scheme, there has been press speculation that this may be in the region of 1000-1500. But obviously this will depend on the precise measures, and would be for the French Government to make public."

2. A classified telegram giving a brief comment on the above follows deskby, but the above text is I hope self-standing.

You

JM Macgregor