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crossing, an even
etc.
etc.
This
larger
container port, a much larger university
system, a more up to date stock exchange, more hotels for tourists,
is practical evidence that we are working
to preserve prosperity and stability, a s we said we
would do in the Joint Declaration, with the aim that by 1997 Hong
Kong will still be a thriving and successful community.
conscientiously
9.
•
As regards the development of representative government it is
important to understand that Hong Kong has now a highly developed
capitalist economic and social system. Over the last 10 or 15 years that system has come both to need and to produce a highly educated
and professional middle class of engineers, lawyers, accountants,
bankers, managers and
communications experts. A s education has
greater and more
in the process of government and have sought to
The
demand for such
We believe
progressed people have come to take a much
articulate interest
play a greater role in government.
participation would have grown irrespective of 1997.
that, far from threatening stability, we have contributed to the
maintenance of stability by responding to that demand, which comes
not just
just from the professional but from the community as a whole.
The professional middle classes, however, although relatively
small in number are of vital importance to Hong Kong's economy and
will not stay in a society which does not meet their aspirations. They in particular will find it easy to leave: our aim is by showing
them that their aspirations can
can be met to encourage them to stay.
10.
The
convincing
Chinese Government too will have to play its part
class this professional
that their aspirations will
in
be
met.
we
We have
80
have proceeded very cautiously.
limited only
indirect elections: there has been
11.
Nevertheless,
far introduced
strong
enough.
arrangements
steps
are
work
needed.
some
clear
that
we
have not
gone
far
criticism from
quarters
We have made
that we wish to see how the present
1987 whether before deciding in 1987
what further
The Chinese themselves have set up a
an
system of
consultation through the Basic Law Drafting Committee and
and Basic Law
Consultative
generate
a great
Committee, which
deal
we
welcome.
on of discussion
This
the kind of
will in itself
structure Hong
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