16.
None of these cards are likely to change Chinese policy on an
issue which they see as touching on their sovereignty. It is
reasonably encouraging that Qian seems to have been given a new coordinating role on policy towards Hong Kong. He at least brings an awareness of the damage China will do to its international
interests by mishandling the Hong Kong problem (as the Americans have already made clear to the Chinese). Li Peng no doubt also
retains influence, and an invitation to him to visit London would
be a considerable inducement. This would only be worth offering if
it looked likely to resolve the impasse in a way which was
acceptable to us.
17. I propose that at OPD (K) we conclude that we should:
continue to give firm support to the Governor's electoral
proposals
encourage the Chinese to enter serious discussions with us
and to put forward alternative ideas;
give the Governor discretion to amend his proposals if alternatives emerge which meet the criteria he has laid down, and
which would help to sustain support in Hong Kong for his broad approach and possibly mute Chinese opposition.
contain this row as far as possible, and show that we are
ready for cooperation with China both over Hong Kong and more
widely: but equally, make clear to the Chinese that they can not expect to behave as they have been doing towards Hong Kong without
affecting the overall relationship with us.
D.H.
Foreign and Commonwealth office
12 November 1992
cab.off.SA
SLM
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