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come up with comments which re conducive to the territory's transition
towards 1997 and to its prosperity and stability. By candialy
pinpointing the root of the problem and reminding those who are
concerned about Hong Kong's future to give careful thought to the question
of dovetailing the two systems, Mr Xu had in fact done something
favourable and not harmful to the overall situation. This is more
useful and constructive than saying one thing and, at the same time,
hiding something entirely different up one's sleeves. Therefore, to
keep silent is a bad move, to speak up late is a mediocre move, but
to call people's attention right now to the question of dovetailing
is an excellent move.
As it is an objective fact that the pace of constitutional
reforms has quickened, China cannot get away with such cursory
remarks as "no comment" and "assume no responsibility". Not a few
commentators and members of the media have made their views known to
the NCNA's local office. They ask whether a draft constitution should
be drawn up for Hong kong before the Basic Law is subject to discussion.
They suggest that the draft be open for discussion by the public so
that public views can be collected. This work should preferrably
begin before 1987 and the public will be given guidelines for
uiscussion. The published draft is not final and will go through
the process of extensive discussion and endorsement by the relevant
authorities several times around. Such a measure will enable the
Basic Law to assume a leading role in the development of Hong Kong's
future political system and will help to bridge the two together.
In response to the questions of reporters, the NCNA director
also observed that the idea of publishing in advance the part of the
Basic Law on constitutional arrangements is a sign of concern and
responsibility towarus Hong Kong's stability and prosperity.
his opinion, speed and quality are both essential. If quality has to
be sacrificed for speed, it would be better to slow down a bit.
/.....