TNAG-2243-FCO40-3224-Most-favoured-nation-status-for-China-impact-on-Hong-Kong-1991 — Page 143

Mr Stone

Reference

RIDAKI/CVL

(96)

RESTRICTED

REC!

Ma

090/4

CHINESE ACCESSION TO ICCPR AND ICESCR AND CHINA MFN STATUS

I attach a Tin Tin Daily News report summary that the Chinese Government are considering accession to the international human rights Covenants probably as part of their efforts to secure renewal of MFN status.

1.

2.

We should not be over optimistic about this report. But I recall that there were indications before Tiananmen Square that the Chinese were thinking of accession and this report is at least plausible. If the Chinese were to accede, it would considerably simplify eventual discussions in the JLG about the inheritance by China of our obligations under the Covenants in accordance with JD 156 (eg the press report suggests that China would include reporting obligations in its accession).

3.

I wonder whether this is something we should discuss with the Americans. If, from their point of view, China's accession to the Convenant would indeed help the administration in persuading Congress to renew MFN status, we should encourage them to drop those hints to the Chinese. Perhaps Mr Seaton could advise whether there are any imminent meetings between US and Chinese officials during which the subject might be raised (

would be too late to catch Kimmitt) :

assume it

CODE 18-77

PA Major

Hong Kong Department

WH305

3 May 1991

270 2655

Сс

Mr. Seaton

ms Barrett

mo

Paul.

with enclosure