endorsed the British Government's position.
6. We said repeatedly, from the outset, that we were ready to discuss the Governor's proposals without preconditions. We engaged in intensive diplomatic exchanges in February and March in an attempt to agree a satisfactory basis for talks. A basis
for talks was eventually agreed and they began in Peking on 22
April. So far there have been seventeen rounds. Progress has
been very slow but the atmosphere has been businesslike.
Following the meeting in Peking on 9 July between our two
Foreign Ministers, the negotiations began to focus on the
essential points of substance. Another meeting between the Foreign Secretary and the Chinese Foreign Minister took place in New York on 1 October. There is still a considerable gap
between us, but we have been working hard for a successful outcome. However time constraints are pressing, and we have made it clear to the Chinese side that the Hong Kong Government will need to table draft legislation on the more urgent (and more straightforward) issues in mid-December.
8. Our aim is to reach an understanding with China, but not at any price.
It remains an essential point for us that these elections held under British administration should be fair, open and acceptable to the people of Hong Kong. We have said we will recommend to the Legislative Council any understanding reached with China. It will be for LegCo to pass the necessary legislation. We have said we will accept their judgement, provided it is compatible with our international obligations.
9.
Background and History
The system of government in Hong Kong has evolved in a way which has reflected the territory's unique situation. In other British Dependent Territories our policy has been to promote the
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