TNAG-2708-FCO40-3914-House-of-Commons-Select-Committee-on-Foreign-Affairs-and-Par-1993 — Page 25

supp.PQ.rod

2.

IMPLICATIONS FOR HONG KONG/BRITAIN

Sept 94 Dumeli

Sept 95 Lis Co

берг

How long will you delay introducing the legislation to LegCo?

The Governor has decided, with the advice of the Executive

Council, to publish the draft legislation. But this does

not commit him to introduce it to the Legislative Council

immediately.

-

But we cannot delay the legislative process in Hong Kong indefinitely. The aim is to enact legislation this session

so that orderly arrangements can be made for the elections

in 1994-5.

What steps could China take against Hong Kong?

Hope that Chinese side will recognise their shared

responsibility for ensuring the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong, and will take up our offer to talk about the points that divide us. Not in anyone's interest for China to seek to inflict economic damage on Hong Kong.

Comment on Hang Seng Index?

Has always been a volatile market. But underlying economic fundamentals strong.

Damage to British interests

No evidence that British business interests have suffered as

a result of the disagreement with China.

Any attempt by the Chinese to affect British business prospects in China would be contrary to their public

position of encouraging more trade between China and the UK.

Appreciate that British businessmen are concerned.

We have

a responsibility to them, but equally we have a responsibility to do what we believe to be best for the

people of Hong Kong.

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