HONG KONG
1. The House will not be surprised if I say that one of the most important foreign policy issues facing us is the future of
Hong Kong. It is also one of the most challenging. For Hong Kong is one of the most shining examples of successful enterprise anywhere in the world. Its success can be attributed to a unique synthesis of British and Chinese talent.
2. The people of Hong Kong are understandably concerned to be able to preserve the vital elements in their society. The contacts my colleagues and I have had with Hong Kong people with individuals representing a wide range of opinions there. have shown clearly
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that they wish to see continuity in the systems and the freedoms which characterise Hong Kong life today. They wish to be certain that in future the essential foundations of their way of life will be maintained: that the basis of the current legal and social
continue: that Hong Kong's economy w
will remain open to that they will be able to speak and meet and travel as they wish. HMG fully understand this
systems will
world markets:
concern,
3. At present continuity is assured by British administration.
But we must and do bear in mind the realities of the situation and of Hong Kong's unique historical and geographical circumstances, including the fact that the lease 92% of the territory is due. to
expire in 1997.
4.
systems while
The problem that we face is how best to deal with these realities to ensure continuity in Hong Kong's preserving the territory's stability and prosperity, the agreed common aim of the talks. This poses
as many challenges for China as
it does for ourselves. And, of course, for the people of Hong Kong
themselves.
The
5. Ten rounds of intensive talks have now been held since last
July in the second, more detailed phase of negotiations. eleventh will take place on 26/27 March. In each round the friendship which exists between China and Britain has been a real
plus point. It has me ant that the talks have gone ahead
in a
useful