ng on ilong Kong Belween President liang Zemin and
Lord Callaghan May 17, 1993
Greal Hall of the People
Lord Callaghan staled that his personal views siluation were as follows:
ΟΠ the
1. The UK wants a slable and prosperous llong Kong now and in the future. It would be a false analysis lo suggest that the UK is seeking to make difficullies.
2. The proposals that have been pul forward by the British are open lo change. The phrase which has been used is that the proposals " are not set in concrele".
3. The British Government has certain difficullies al In Hong Kong the home and in Hong Kong on this issue. ordinary voler wants more democracy but the business In Britain there is community is generally against.
pressure for more democracy in Hong Kong. The issue is often presented as Britain favouring more democracy and China opposing her efforts. I know this is a simplistic analysis.
4.
China will understand that if the UK makes proposals pressure for more democracy il cannot withdraw them under from another government.
5. My interest in this matter is lo find a way ahead in order that good long term relations between Britain and China can be sustained. Hong Kong is a side issue.
6. Trust should be restored.
If the parties could move
ahead to a discussion of the specifics of the 1995 elections the Brilish side would be satisfied.
7. The consequences of not reaching an could be bitterness on both sides.
agreement
8.
I would like you to consider that
by indicating
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