Rets
w.
Park 172
(FR
PRIME MINISTER'S QUESTION TIME: 30 NOVEMBER
HONG KONG
Line to Take
Have talks with China on 1994/95 election arrangements broken down?
We have not broken off the talks. We have made it plain to the Chinese side that we remain ready to carry forward our discussions intensively on the main issues. We have proposed a further Round of talks in December to do so.
But as we have warned all along, we are now up against time constraints on the urgent issues relating both to the 1994 and the 1995 elections. We are now considering how to take matters forward on these issues.
Will the Government be making a statement to the House
soon?/What about a Debate in this House?
-
I would have no difficulty
with a proposal that this House be given an opportunity soon to discuss Britain's responsibility under the Joint Declaration to administer Hong Kong up to 30 June 1997.
An important part of that responsibility will be to ensure that the elections due in
1994/95 are conducted openly and
fairly and are acceptable to Hong Kong people.
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 part of that is to have a Legislative Council elected openly and fairly. The people of Hong Kong deserve no less.
UKB 0116
RECE!"
INDE
EGISTRY
3 4 NOV 1993
SKFICER
PA
REGISTRY Action Taken
15ap.pm.PR
SLM
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