TNAG-2711-FCO40-3917-House-of-Commons-Select-Committee-on-Foreign-Affairs-and-Par-1993 — Page 147

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.

Has the Governor made a concession by agreeing to discuss 1994 elections

separately from 1995 elections? If the Chinese accepted the proposals we have made on the 1994 elections, we would welcome this. We see no purpose in a lengthy discussion of the 1994 elections alone.

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.

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