dividends in the form of better productivity 1 ow
inflation, increasing employment and above all the
prospect of solid sustainable growth. We are a good
trading partner for Hong Kong, just as y ou are a major
market for us. British companies are active here, and
we believe they have the capacity and expertise
continue to play a major role in Hong Kong. This
important, not only for commercial reasons, but also
a visible expression of the UK's commitment to future of Hong Kong.
to
i s
as
the
word
more
about
the
a
On this historic occasion I should like to say
further development of
representative government in Hong Kong. We understand
the aspirations of the people of Hong Kong in this
respect. Decisions are for the 1987 review, and I
and I am
not going to anticipate what they may be. But I want
to say that we are happy to encourage the development
of
a
system which meets the Territory's needs and customs
and which at the s ame time fully accords with the
spirit and terms of the Joint Declaration. This needs
care and a sense of responsibility. Each step must be
carefully measured, and we should not do any thing to
endanger stability.
Nevertheless, provided that we
am confident that the
tackle it in the right way development of more representative government will not
only not damage, but will actually enhance Hong Kong's
stability and prosperity.
It is, first and foremost,
your views on what sort of
But we for our part are
Kong will be properly
for you in Hong Kong to give
institutions you want.
determined that by 1997 Hong equipped for a smooth transfer of government.
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