Hong Kong
22.
The successful conclusion of the negotiations on
the future of Hong Kong is another considerable
achievement. The draft agreement, initialled in Peking
on 26 September, is a symbol of how determination and
political will can resolve difficult international
issues.
23.
Throughout the long process of negotiation, this
Government has made this clear beyond doubt: the
agreement must be acceptable to the people of Hong
Kong, as well as to Parliament and the Chinese
Government. The people of Hong Kong are now expressing
their views. The reports of the Assessment Office,
which will collect those views, and of the independent
monitoring team, will be published at the end of this
month. Parliament will then have a chance to give the
agreement full and proper consideration. We aim, if
Parliament approves, to sign the agreement by the end
of the year.
24. That agreement is a good one. It meets the
objectives we set out to achieve. It provides a firm
foundation for Hong Kong's continuing stability and
prosperity. I strongly commend it to this House, and
to the people of Hong Kong.
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