WHEN Governor Chris Patten arrives at No 10 Downing Street on Tuesday to discuss the next steps for his Hongkong reform package, many believe he will find his staunchest ally, Prime Minister Mr John Major, privately advocating conciliation and dialogue with China.
London sources maintain that, while the British Government still supports him fully and will not force his hand, Westminster considers it is imperative that Mr Patten is seen to go even further than the proverbial extra mile to try and kick-start negotiations.