WOZAEQ(2)
CONFIDENTIAL
Defensive
Text of Basic Law
Chinese have passed us an advance text, but not yet received in London. We shall place in libraries of Houses of Parliament.
Debate in Parliament?
No doubt members will first want to consider the issues
carefully no hurry. If it was the feeling that a debate should be held, a matter for discussion through the normal channels.
Chinese attitude to a debate in Parliament?
At an earlier stage Chinese spokesmen did express some opposition to a debate in Parliament (or LegCo). We explained privately that Parliament and LegCo would come to their own conclusions: natural that they might want to discuss such an important issue. Now softer Chinese line say this is a matter for
us.
-
But important that terms of any motion or intervention should not appear to question China's formal responsibility to draft and promulgate Basic Law. A matter of great sensitivity.
Published draft in line with JD?
Specific articles in line with JD?
Much of draft does indeed reflect provisions of JD. But will wish to study it very carefully before taking a view on whether any part of it is inconsistent with JD.
[If pressed: if there are provisions which appear to us inconsistent with Joint Declaration, we will certainly make our views known to
Chinese authorities).
CONFIDENTIAL