21. There are other very positive signs which give us every cause for
confidence.
The Sino-British Joint Liaison Group meets in an excellent atmosphere and has solid achievements to its credit. It has made arrangements to ensure that Hong Kong maintains its place in the world trading community after 1997: and to facilitate travel by Hong Kong people through, amongst other things, formal agreement to the right of abode endorsement to be placed in the BN (0) passport. These provide clear evidence of the determination of both parties to secure the continued stability and prosperity of Hong Kong through the successful implementation of the agreement. And they have been welcomed in Hong Kong, where confidence in the future is high.
22.
The Government recognizes the importance of these issues to your Lordships and to the people of Hong Kong. We recognize and accept our responsibilities to
all British Dependent Territories citizens in Hong Kong, and we believe they have been fully and fairly met. We have gone a long way to meet the concerns of the people of Hong Kong and of your Lordships. The provisions we are proposing are designed to provide a sound basis for the future security and prosperity of all British Dependent Territories citizens in Hong Kong. In this spirit I commend them to this House and invite your Lordships to approve the Order.
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