TNAG-2715-FCO40-3921-House-of-Commons-Select-Committee-on-Foreign-Affairs-enquiry-1993 — Page 26

JOINT LIAISON GROUP (JLG)

JLG General

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Disappointed with the lack of progress at the last JLG in Peking. Concerned that the JLG is not moving through its programme of work as fast as we would wish.

Real risk that its work might not be completed by 1997. This would have serious effect on Hong Kong after 1997.

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Have seen some reports that the lack of progress is in some way related to the constitutional talks. Hope this is not the case. Seems strange to cut of Hong Kong's nose to spite the UK's face. The only loser would be Hong Kong, and indirectly China.

Defensive

Ability of Legco to amend decisions reached in the JLG?

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Some areas of the JLG require either legislation or funds. These will obviously require the assent of LegCo. This is a statement of fact, not an attempt to undermine the JLG.

Court of Final Appeal

HKG will be putting legislation to LegCo. Will be up to LegCo to decide wether or nor to pass it. Hope it will realise that the advantages of having the CFA established before 1997 outweigh any difficulties people might have with the details of the agreement reached.

brief.legco.BB

SLM