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Further changes will be needed in the period
between 1991 and 1997 to bring Hong Kong's political
system into line with that described in the Joint
Declaration and with the provisions to be included in the
Basic Law. I have stressed the importance of continuity
up to and beyond 1997 and the need to maintain the high
degree of autonomy which we currently enjoy and which is
provided for in the Joint Declaration. The steps to be
taken fully reflect the importance which we place upon
these two principles.
Sir. our aim is to maintain a system of
government which is both effective and responsive and 済 which can continue to evolve in a way which commands the
.full confidence of Hong Kong people. This White Paper
contains a clear commitment to the next steps in the
development of such a system. I believe that it will be
welcomed and supported by the people of Hong Kong.