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which will enshrine that principle of continuity
for this unique society.
Several
We
As I said, we are still negotiating.
points of substance remain to be resolved. I cannot
anticipate the details of an eventual agreement.
are working to a programme which takes account both
of Chinese wishes and of all our own requirements.
The agreement which is reached must be such that we
can commend it to Parliament. I know very well that
people in Hong Kong will need to know the terms of
the agreement and have time to express their views.
And Parliament itself will need time to reflect and
take account of those views.
Let me then sum up. These are complex and difficult
negotiations. We are still some way from an agreement.
And there
But a good deal of progress has been made.
is a will on both sides to bring our work to fruition
in an agreement, which will ensure the stability and
prosperity of Hong Kong.
I can
assure you that, for
the British Government, this remains a prime objective.