TNAG-2612-FCO40-3803-International-support-from-European-countries-regarding-the--1992 — Page 3

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PAO(S) 2/1156/91

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pa lut support (EC) The Barnes- Jone's

Constitutional Development: Germany and France

1.

I spoke recently to the Consuls-General of Germany and France, encouraging them to give support to the Governor's proposals. Both were sympathetic, although they said that there were no planned visits to China by Ministers from their countries in the next few months which would have provided opportunities to put direct messages to Peking.

Both said that Zhou Nan had warned them in a heavy-handed manner not to voice any support.

2.

I am glad to see that Dr Göttelmann has not taken this too seriously. In an interview in today's Economic Times he is quoted as saying that while he does not plan to make a public statement, he believes the Governor's proposals are modest, acceptable and in line with the Hong Kong's long-term interests. He also said that German businessmen in Hong Kong had not been bothered by the current row and that as long as Hong Kong maintained its spirit of freedom they would continue their investments.

3.

proposals.

example.

M. Aublin is entirely sympathetic to the Governor's

I hope he will be encouraged by Dr Göttelmann's

Le.

Chamaro

HED 021/4

(W G Ehrman) Political Adviser

17.12.92

c.c.

SCA IC

PS/GH

Mr Peter Ricketts, HKD, F C O (By Fax)

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