It will have no supervisory role:
It will play no part in the administration of Hong Kong.
The Chinese leaders have given me firm and specific assurances
these points.
Liaison and consultation will continue to be necessary after 1997. The Group will, therefore, continue its work up to the year 2000.
I said in April that we were working to a programme which takes
account of China's wishes and of our own requirements. Under this programme, we aim to complete our work and initial an agreement
before the end of September.
The people of Hong Kong will want to see the full text of the agreement and annexes as early as possible, so that they have time
to consider it. There will be a period for explanation, discussion
and debate. Arrangements for the analysis and assessment of Hong Kong opinion were announced a fortnight ago. This is a vital part
of the programme.
When this assessment has been made, it will then be for Parliament
to debate the agreement, taking full account of the views expressed in Hong Kong. If Parliament agrees, the agreement will be signed
before the end of the year.
From what I have said you will see that something very important has
been achieved. I believe it holds out the prospect of an historic
agreement: An agreement which will provide for a high degree of
autonomy; under which Hong Kong's economic and social systems, its
distinctive way of life and its position as a financial trading and
industrial centre will be secured.
Though there is still a lot of work to be done, I am confident that
on course for a conclusion we shall be able to commend both
to the people of Hong Kong and to the British Parliament.