TALKS WITH THE RUSSIANS ON THE ASIA-PACIFIC, 30 MARCH
HỒNG KONG
POINTS TO MAKE
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Disappointing that, despite our intensive efforts over two
ра
months, we failed to secure an acceptable basis for talks with
China on Hong Kong's electoral issues.
d
The immediate cause was that we could not accept Chinese
insistence that the role of Hong Kong Government representatives in the talks should be down-graded. Chinese were also unwilling
to settle a date for talks.
23
2573
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The Governor therefore published his draft legislation on 12
March. Introduction into LegCo a separate step, to be decided
later.
Strong support in Hong Kong from liberals. But pro-business and pro-China groups critical. Hong Kong public 2:1 in favour.
As expected, Chinese spokesmen have reacted harshly. They initially appeared to have ruled out talks and said that they will
prepare for a new legislature in 1997. But more recent remarks suggest they may still be open to talks.
We face another bumpy period. Are emphasising that the door remains open.
Know that some on the Chinese side favoured talks
and hope they will prevail. But if we must, we will get the
legislative process underway. Aim is to have the legislation
passed by the July recess.
(Defensive)
Trade relations with China are good. We want to maintain these.
Would regret it if China allowed our differences over Hong Kong to
affect our broader bilateral relations. Commercial and economic
relations should be decided on their merits.
14KD 01/4
2 5 MAR 1993
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