SECURITY CLASSIFICATION
Top Secret
Secret
Confidential
Restricted
DSR 11C (Revised 5/87)
emigration, for a variety of reasons. But it is also the
case that many Hong Kong people subsequently return
Hong Kong. We are committed to the preservation of Hong
Kong's freedoms and life-style, thereby maintaining an
environment in which people will continue to want to make
their lives.
Unclassified
PRIVACY MARKING
In Confidence
You refer to views and pressures from the Chinese
authorities. It is surely right that we should take
account of the historical and geographical realities
which have always determined Hong Kong's development.
These will apply after 1997, just as they have applied in
the period of British administration. We attach
considerable importance to achieving a high degree of
institutional continuity in 1997, which is clearly in the
interests of a smooth transition. But this does not mean
that we have in any sense abrogated our responsibility
for Hong Kong or allowed ourselves to be deflected from
the path which we believe to be right. In particular, on
the question of the Basic Law for post-1997 Hong Kong, we
have the right to satisfy ourselves that its eventual
provisions fully and accurately reflect the Joint
Declaration.
I repeat: Britain will continue to adminster Hong
Kong wisely and well until 1997 and in the best interests
of all its people. It is a solemn responsibility which
we will discharge to the best of our ability.