TNAG-2604-FCO40-3792-Detention-of-Hong-Kong-residents-in-China-1992 — Page 106

CONFIDENTIAL

to respond:

If Qian raises this the Prime Minister may like

Our concern about the situation in Tibet, and

indeed throughout China, is well-known;

we coordinate our position at CHR with EC

partners. EC co-sponsored resolution

expressing concern about human rights situation

throughout China, especially Tibet. Resolution

only about human rights, a matter of legitimate international concern;

[if pressed]

Chinese government well

aware of our

our position

on status of Tibet, which has not changed;

successi ve British governments have consistently regarded Tibet as autonomous, while recognising the special position of the

Chinese there. This continues to be the

government 's view. Nevertheless we advocate a

greater measure of real autonomy for the

Tibetans.

Bilateral Trade: British Aerospace BAE 146

UK exports have fallen back dramatically in 1991 to only £320 million (fall of 30% over 1990 figures). Imports from China continue to rise steadily. The

CONFIDENTIAL