傀
They said that they hoped to continue to represent their own interests discreetly to the British Government, but expected that they would come under intense pressure from their Chinese shareholders to express more open opposition to the Governor's proposals.
In reply to these points, Sir Robin outlined the delicate balancing act which the Governor had to perform. He described the care which had gone into framing constitutional proposals which met the aspirations of the people of Hong Kong for more democracy but which were not contrary to the basic law. He also said that the Governor could be relied on to be motivated by the best long term interests of the people of Hong Kong. Representatives of the company accepted this.
Since the lunch was arranged before the Governor's constitutional proposals its purpose could not have been to lobby about them. But Sir Robin had the clear impression that the Directors of Swires had been seriously shaken by the vehemence of the Chinese response. They expected the Chinese to escalate their resistance in some way within the next few weeks.
I am copying this letter to Julie Osborne and John Foggo.
yous
Nikke
(M J Sweet)
Assistant Private Secretary
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.