TNAG-2710-FCO40-3916-House-of-Commons-Select-Committee-on-Foreign-Affairs-and-Par-1993 — Page 136

File 109

THE COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY ASSOCIATION (CPA) UK BRANCH'S

ANNUAL PARLIAMENTARY VISIT

HKB 011/6

RECEIVED IN REGISTRY

14 MAY 1993

HONG KONG: COMMONWEALTH

DESK OFFICER

REGISTRY

INDEX

PA

Action Taker.

<<

Points to make (defensive)

Hong Kong is a member of the Commonwealth through its status

as a dependent territory of the United Kingdom. Once China resumes sovereignty in July 1997, Hong Kong will cease to be a

member.

- We would certainly not oppose the continuation of contacts between individuals or institutions where these may be beneficial to Hong Kong and acceptable to the sovereign power.

HONG KONG: DEMOCRACY

Points to make (if raised)

Welcome start of talks with China on Hong Kong electoral issues at the end of last month. Have agreed with China that the content will be kept confidential.

- Our aim is to reach an understanding with China on arrangements which ensure that the 1995 elections will be fair, open and acceptable to Hong Kong people.

If we do reach an understanding, the British and Hong Kong Governments will recommend this to the Legislative Council in Hong Kong. It will be for them to pass the necessary

legislation.

The Governor and his Executive Council will decide when to put the legislation to LegCo in the light of progress in

the talks.

cpa.brf.PR

SLM