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120
PRIME MINISTER'S QUESTION TIME
HONG KONG
Line to Take
Talks with China on 1994/95 election arrangements
There has been no change in our objective of fair and open elections acceptable to the people of Hong Kong. We are working for success in the talks with China. But we will not make concessions which would put our principles at risk.
(If raised) Possibility of 1st stage agreement on local council elections?
If we could reach agreement quickly on a number of uncontroversial matters relating to all three elections in 1994 and 1995, this would enable the legislative work to begin in Hong Kong. That would give a little more time to concentrate on the remaining and more controversial issues - the through train, the functional constituencies and the election committee.
Governor's visit to London
Useful to take stock of the talks on electoral arrangements after 15 rounds and 150 hours of negotiation. We are proposing to the Chinese that we move into a more intensive phase of talks straightaway to try and find acceptable answers to all the outstanding issues.
4KB 011/0
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.
Observer Article (7 November) alleging existence of a list of UK companies against which the Chinese intend to discriminate
Not aware of any such list. Not helpful to engage in such speculation. We are working hard for agreement in the talks with China on electoral arrangements in Hong Kong.
pm.18mar.PR
SLM
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