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HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL — 14 March 1984
and produce the desired effects. If the negotiation is conducted in the spirit of the common objective, it is possible that an acceptable solution will be fo
It may be of interest to mention that Article 102 of the United Nations Charter, 1945 provides that all treaties and international agreements entered into by Members of the United Nations Organization shall as soon as possible be registered with the Secretariat of the Organization and be published by it. The Sixth Committee (Legal) of the United Nations General Assembly in 1947 ruled that Article 102 imposes a binding obligation to effect registration of any treaty or agreement entered into by Members of the Organization. This ruling is obviously useful and significant.
In finding a solution, the whole issue should be viewed in perspective-in the light of historical considerations, the changing spirit of the times, Hong Kong's international dimension, and the need to respect the wishes and rights of the people of Hong Kong. A capitalist Hong Kong under the umbrella of a socialist China is a thought provoking concept. The success of any formulation for the future will depend on the degree of support it receives from the people. Any adverse effect on the movement of capital and talent would have a detrimental effect on our economy. It is obviously desirable that the people should be given ample time and opportunity to discuss and offer suggestions on any arrangements for the future.
Hong Kong owes much of its present day success to China and Britain. China's recent open door policy has fostered better and closer ties between Hong Kong and China. The trend is encouraging. Sino-British relationship is good and is likely to continue to improve. It is a scenario that augurs well. Hong Kong must take advantage of this and strive vigorously to maintain the momentum of its growth. A prosperous Hong Kong will be of immense value to all concerned. And the key to the preservation of an economic and political environment in which the majority will find it acceptable to live and work.
China has repeatedly stated that sovereignty is not negotiable. The only sensible inference is that there will be changes. To the majority of the population, Hong Kong is home. Whatever tomorrow holds, the majority will be here. The right to govern brings with it duties and obligations. Is there any doubt that the interests of the people must be protected to the maximum extent?
Sir, in supporting the motion, I appreciate that this Council has no authority
to pre-empt or override any decision of the British Parliament. Nevertheless, it
is hoped that views expressed in all forums will be given due consideration by the British and Chinese Governments.
MR. WONG LAM delivered his speech in Cantonese:
督憲閣下:有關中、英就香港前途的會談,港人極為關注,有一段時間甚至民心動盪,大 家茫然不知所措。
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