§ Mr. Parryasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on his recent meeting with the Governor of Hong Kong.
§ Mr. LuceMy right hon. and learned Friend and I met the Governor of Hong Kong on 1 July and on 4 July when44W he was accompanied by the Unofficial Members of the Executive Council. My right hon. and learned Friend and I took part in their meeting with the Prime Minister on 4 July. They had a further meeting with me on 5 July. These meetings were part of the continuing process of consultation on the future of Hong Kong.
We took the occasion to reaffirm our commitment to Hong Kong, and our aim of seeking arrangements for the future which would be acceptable to Parliament, China and to the people of Hong Kong. We attach great importance to the advice of the Executive Council which we will continue to seek throughout the course of our talks with the Chinese Government.
§ Mr. Parryasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, if the question of sovereignty of Hong Kong was discussed at his recent meeting with the Governor; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Parryasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the answer of 27 June, Official Report, c. 23, why the content of the talks on the lease of the New Territories is confidential.
§ Mr. LuceThe aim of these discussions is to reach an agreement on the future of Hong Kong acceptable to all parties concerned, including this Parliament. This goal is more likely to be achieved if the details of the talks remain confidential.