HC Deb 28 January 1976 vol 904 c403
4. Mr. Adley

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what subjects he intends to raise for discussion during his forthcoming visit to the People's Republic of China.

The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Mr. James Callaghan)

I hope to have wide-ranging discussions. The agenda for such talks is subject to agreement by both sides and with a view to strengthening the existing ties between our two Governments.

Mr. Adley

I thank the right hon. Gentleman for that reply and wish him well on his visit. Will he comment on the remarks of Mr. Schlesinger in London that China is now NATO's best ally? At the end of the talks, will he try to frame a joint declaration with the Chinese Government condemning the military intervention of the Soviet Union in Angola?

Mr. Callaghan

I do not think that it will be helpful as part of my visit to China perhaps to inflame a dispute between the world's largest country and the world's most populous country. It is in our interests to have good relations with both countries.

Mr. Hooley

Will my right hon. Friend be touching on the status and future of Hong Kong in his conversations?

Mr. Callaghan

I doubt it, but if the Chinese wish to raise anything about that matter I shall listen carefully to what they have to say.

Forward to