PRIME MINISTER'S QUESTION TIME 22 JULY
HONG KONG
We are keen to make progress in our talks with the Chinese side in the best interests of Hong Kong. But time is not unlimited.
Douglas Hurd was in Peking recently to discuss Hong Kong and other issues with the Chinese Foreign Minister. sides agreed that progress should be speeded up.
-
Both
Our aim is to secure agreement on electoral arrangements which are fair, open and acceptable to the people of Hong Kong.
Is there a deadline for the negotiations?
- We want the talks to succeed. Not helpful to talks about deadlines. But clearly the talks cannot go on for ever. Legislation must be in place in time for the 1994 District Board election.
Will the Governor's proposals be watered down?
The Governor's approach has the full support of the British Government as we agreed again earlier this month. His aim and our aim in the talks with China, is to secure agreement on electoral arrangements which are open, fair and acceptable to Hong Kong.
HKB 011/6
RECEIVED IN REGISTRY
22 JUL 1993
DESK OFFICER
REGISTRY
PA
Auroi. Takor
Erie (149
(Defensive: Effect on Hong Kong economy of Chinese measures against overheating).
-
Economic fundamentals in Hong Kong remain very strong. Probably sounder than in any other Community in the world.
(Defensive: Preparatory group ("Shadow Government") for post-1997 Hong Kong).
Under the Joint Declaration Britain is responsible for
administering Hong Kong up to 1997. No one is questioning that.
Lord Howe's report on Human Rights in China
- Grateful to Lord Howe and his team for undertaking this visit. A valuable report which points to a number of areas where situation could be improved.
Hope the Chinese Government will give it careful and positive consideration.
- We are ready to implement those recommendations relevant to us.
hk.pm.PR
SLM
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.