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22. MRS. PAULINE NG
In formulating the Basic Law, China should take in account the views and proposals of Hong Kong people on the Agreement.
A wide range of freedoms are guaranteed in Annex I of the Agreement. The Agreement is legally binding and it is hoped that through her link with the United Nations, China will continue to support the noble aim of promoting respect for human rights in every country.
Some of the reservations entered by Britain in respect of the application of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights to Hong Kong, e.g. on universal suffrage and equal rights of employment for women in the Civil Service, should be removed.
The Hong Kong SAR should adopt a more democratic approach in formulating its education policies and should improve the existing consultative system in the field of education.
Freedom in the choice of education, including overseas education, and freedoms of the press and speech should be maintained.
The drafter of the Basic Law should consult the people of Hong Kong.
Transitional arrangements, e.g. on education, official language and political structure, should be gradually arranged.
23. MR. PETER POON
The Agreement contains more details and assurances than expected. Both countries emphasise that it is binding and they have every intention of implementing it.
The Agreement provides for the preservation of basic rights and freedoms of the individual, financial autonomy for Hong Kong, continued employment of public servants, the freedom of travel and an elected legislature.
Warns that taxes may have to be raised substantially to compensate for the loss of revenue resulting from the new policy on the renewal of land leases, the limit on land sales and the sharing of premium income from land transactions.
In order to ensure genuine freedom of travel, the Basic Law should amplify that the meaning of "unless restrained by law" means the law as currently practised in Hong Kong.
The future political structure must be suitable for the unique position of Hong Kong, and radical changes introduced prematurely and hastily must be avoided.
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