CONFIDENTIAL
In recent years the invariable practice when the UK divests itself of sovereignty over territory has been to do so upon
the authority of an Act of Parliament. The situation of
Hong Kong is of course different, since in this case we are
entering into an agreement with another power to terminate
Sovereignty as from a certain specified date. But this does
not affect the need for parliamentary authority for the
termination of sovereignty: this authority must exist before
the Government ratifies the agreement and thus creates an international obligation.
I will endeavour to
answer as many of the points raised by
your Lordships as possible in relation
in relation to Clause One of this
Bill.
But first I would
I would like to express the Government's gratitude for the all-party support the Bill has received from the
House. I am sure it is important to maintain this consensus in the coming 12 years for the sake of confidence in Hong
Kong.
CONFIDENTIAL