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UK Position on Sovereignty and the Treaties
Our position has been clearly stated. We are now looking to the
future. The right way to deal with the question is by friendly discussion and agreement. I would not rule out any solution that
was acceptable to the people of Hong Kong and to HMG.
China's SAR plan?
We are well aware of the main lines of the Chinese Government's
thinking, but they have not suggested that there is a blue-print.
In our talks in Peking both sides have outlined their positions.
There is much exploration still to be done. The important point is
that talks are taking place. The people of Hong Kong are well able
to judge for themselves what future arrangement would or would not inspire confidence. I note that many people have been voicing
their opinions.
What is HMG's aim and plan for the future?
HMG's aim, through discussion with the Chinese Government, is to agree arrangements for the future which will maintain Hong Kong's
stability and prosperity in a way acceptable to the British
Parliament, the Government of China and the people of Hong Kong.
Both we and the Chinese Government have the strongest possible
motives for reaching such an agreement.
We are entering the discussions on the basis of firmness and
flexibility: we are firm on our commitment to maintain the
well-being and way of life of Hong Kong. We are flexible on the means of achieving this. The important point is that continuity
should be effectively guaranteed.
But since the Chinese have revealed their plan publicly, should not
HMG tell Hong Kong their ideas in more detail?
We have of course seen a number of reports of remarks by Chinee
public figures. Since many of these have been made to Hong Kong people, it is most important that Hong Kong people should give their