TNAG-2734-FCO40-3942-Hong-Kong-role-of-the-Legislative-Council-(LEGCO)-1993 — Page 87

GOVERMENT HOUSE HONG KONG.

FRI 12 MAR 93 06:57

PG. 12

RESTRICTED

[If pressed]

It is a fact that the Legislative Council can amend draft legislation. But as I have said, we

would not reach agreement with China on

something unless we thought it would be

acceptable to LegCo.

Q7

A7

Can you give more detail about the exact sticking points with the Chinese side?

I have said that there remain only a few points of

disagreement which could and should be resolved

quickly. Details of the talks will need to remain

confidential. But I have set out my approach to the main issues in my statement.

Q8

A8

Doesn't your acceptance of the 3 Chinese

compliances, as recently enunciated by Li Peng,

amount to withdrawal of your proposals?

Not in the least. I've always made plain that my proposals are fully consistent with all past

exchanges, understandings and agreements reached

with the Chinese side and with the Basic Law.

Q9

Have the Chinese side dropped the pre-condition that

your proposals should be withdrawn?

A9

I have not withdrawn my proposals.

the table.

They remain on