pa
Rets N.
PRIME MINISTER'S QUESTION TIME: 2 DECEMBER
HONG KONG
Line to Take
Fully support the steps taken by the Governor.
We have not broken off the talks with China. It is necessary for practical reasons to put draft legislation on the more urgent issues to the Legislative Council before it rises for its Christmas recess.
We have proposed a further round of talks in December to continue discussion of the remaining issues.
- Would prefer to proceed by agreement with China wherever possible, and attach importance to cooperation on the basis of the Joint Declaration.
China say they will break off talks if we begin legislation
We have said all along that we could not delay legislation indefinitely.
We have said we stand ready to discuss remaining issues with the Chinese side. Hope they will agree to do so.
What point in elections in 1995 if Chinese hold new ones in 1997?
It is our plain duty to
administer Hong Kong to the best of our ability until 30 June
1997. That includes holding
these elections.
China has every interest in a smooth_transfer of sovereignty in 1997.
4KB 011/6.
икв
Should not have unnecessary rows with Chinese affecting British business interests
Essential for Hong Kong's economic success that its way of life and legal system are maintained after 1997. Key part of that is to have a Legislative Council elected openly and fairly. The people of Hong Kong deserve no less.
15ap.pm.PR
SLM
Par
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.