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China has influenced outcome of Review?
Decisions were taken by us. All options in Review (including
direct elections in 1988) were genuine ones.
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Key factors in decisions: views of people of Hong Kong and
interests of Hong Kong and all its people.
In commenting on Green Paper, many people referred to importance of ensuring that development of government before 1997 was
compatible with Basic Law.
Right to take account of realities of history and geography:
Special circumstances of Hong Kong.
Implications of Joint Declaration.
Progress made in drafting of Basic Law.
Britain should have stood up to China
This attitude is quite misconceived.
RHLF
As stated in debate on 20 January, all evidence demonstrates that Hong Kong prospers when London and Peking are in harmony.
Overriding need is to secure foundation for future stability and prosperity of Hong Kong.
This cannot be founded on confrontation between Britain and
China.
Chinese were consulted?
Repeat that decisions were ours.
But as
a matter of courtesy, advance copies were handed over a few days before publication in Hong Kong. Same done with 1987 Green
Paper and 1984 White Paper.
This
[If pressed] Naturally there are frequent exchanges with Chinese Government on matters of mutual interest concerning Hong Kong.
is beneficial and helpful.
Natural that Chinese Government should be kept informed about Hong Kong people's thinking on issues dealt with in Green Paper.
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