The US must take firm line on China

Last week the chief executive-designate of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Tung Chee-hwa, launched a stinging attack at people who go abroad to 'bad mouth' Hong Kong and mislead the international community.

The criticism was probably directed at the leader of the Democratic Party, Martin Lee Chu-ming, and his tour of Europe. His party promptly responded by calling Mr Tung a 'thought policeman' who wants to stifle the freedom of expression.

On the day that Mr Tung made his remarks, US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Jeffrey Bader testified at a congreesional hearing on Hong Kong. Mr Bader said 'freedom of expression and of the media will provide an indication of China's intentions'.

Mr Tung's blatant threat shows him to be as intolerant as the Chinese Government. It should also dispel any remaining illusions harboured by all concerned, including the Clinton administration.

During my recent visit to Washington, government officials and members of Congress assured me of their deep concern for Hong Kong. Some even said a successful handover was essential to maintaining progress in Sino-US ties. If Beijing mishandles Hong Kong it could destroy the credibility of President Bill Clinton's policy of engaging China.

While some US officials and politicians are keen to pursue a strategy aimed at Chinese integration, not isolation, there is concern that suppression of democracy and civil liberties in Hong Kong will cause a backlash in Congress, pushing human rights back to the top of the agenda. Such risks increase as '1997' gets more coverage in the US media.

Secretary of State Madeleine Albright has vowed to 'tell it like it is' on human rights issues when she visits China. She also intends to pitch for US business.