HONG KONG
FUTURE
Q.
CONFIDENTIAL
What do you see as the major problems ahead in implementing
the Joint Declaration?
A.
her
Air
The work of implementing the Joint Declaration is going very
well. We have tackled and solved some very important issues,
notably Hong Kong's position in the GATT, separate
agreements between Hong Kong and
Service
partners, and travel documentation for Hong Kong people
after 1997. There is a great deal of work still to be done,
but I am
confident, given the constructive and businesslike
atmosphere in which the JLG's discussions have been
conducted, that there will be no insurmountable problems.
Q.
How do you think Hong Kong is best able to maintain
prosperity and stability during the run-up to 1997 and
beyond?
its
A.
The most important thing is for Hong Kong to continue to have
confidence in itself, as it always has in the past. I have
the greatest admiration for the way Hong Kong people have
taken every difficulty in their stride, and have had such conspicuous success in building
humane society.
a prosperous,
stable and
Q.
A.
Are you worried that the presence of the Joint Liaison Group
in Hong Kong in 1988 will cramp your style?
No.
The Joint Declaration makes quite clear that it is an organ of liaison, and will play no part in the administration of Hong Kong, But I shall of course remain closely in touch with its proceedings.
CONFIDENTIAL
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