TNAG-2771-FCO40-3988-Coverage-of-Sino-British-talks-in-the-Hong-Kong-press-1993 — Page 32

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subjectively the Chinese side hoped that political and economic matters could be separated. But if an agreement could not be reached; objectively speaking, it would be difficult to guarantee there would not be adverse effects on HK's economy. However, the Chinese side would take measures to reduce the effects.

6.

SCMP quoted sources as saying (28.10)

as saying (28.10) the HKMAO and Local NCNA branch had been given the task of mapping out contingency plans to minimise damage to the HK economy in case the talks broke down. China had been looking at options on how to handle specific issues such as CT9 and the airport projects.

7.

The papers (29.10) accorded prominent coverage to the completion of the 15th round noting the next round would be held in mid November. Some noted the differences between the two sides were still great. Sir Robin McLaren was widely quoted as saying the through train and the 1994/95 electoral arrangements were discussed.

8.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wu Jianmin said (29.10) certain progress was made after 15 rounds, but the talks were still far from reaching an agreement. He reiterated the Chinese side's sincerity to reach an agreement on the basis of the 'three conformities'.

9.

The HK Economic Journal quoted (29.10) a Chinese source close to the talks as saying that the Chinese side had shown great flexibility on the question of through train in the 15th round and proposed that people who had taken part in subversive activities against the Chinese Government could not become members of the first SAR legislature. The Chinese side insisted the SARPC to be set up in 1996 would have the power to confirm who could board the through train. However, the British side felt the Chinese proposal was too subjective and vague. The paper said besides the through train, the two sides had also not narrowed their differences over the Election Committee, functional constituencies and appointed DB seats.

10. HKMAO Vice-director Chen Ziying said (30.10) that according to general principles, no country would allow those who would subvert their government in its legislature. Chen refused to elaborate on the definition of subversion on grounds of confidentiality of the talks.

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