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programmes of consultation.
The first such delegation is at
present in Hong Kong. A timetable has been drawn up to ensure that
consideration is given systematically and in turn to each part of
the draft. Thereafter the draft will be revised. A second draft
will be published in 1989 and the entire consultation process
repeated before a further revision of the text is formally submitted to the National People's Congress in 1990 to be passed into law. We
welcome these very considerable efforts made by the Chinese
authorities to engage in consultation with Hong Kong people.
18.
I am sure that the people of Hong Kong will participate fully
in the consultation exercise and make known their views on the draft
There is every reason to believe that those responsible for the drafting of the Basic Law will be receptive to their views. assured that the draft is open to amendment in the light of the
comments which are expressed.
19.
We are
Where Her Majesty's Government are concerned, I have
explained our relationship to the drafting process. The Basic Law has already figured in a number of our exchanges with the Chinese Government. We are grateful for their readiness to brief us on
progress and to explain their intentions. Chinese Government spokesmen have encouraged us to convey our comments on the text to them through diplomatic channels, together with comments from the various organs of the Hong Kong Government. We shall certainly do this, in pursuance of the contacts we have already had.
20.
In particular, if we conclude that there are elements in the text which are not consistent with the Joint Declaration, we shall certainly bring these to the attention of the Chinese Government. Our representations will be firm. But I think noble Lords will understand if I suggest that they can best be made in confidence
through the various channels open to us.
21.
Noble Lords have referred to the problems caused by the fresh influx of Vietnamese boat people into Hong Kong. We are acutely
aware of the gravity of the crisis facing the territory. So far this year there have been more than 6,000 arrivals: the population of boat people has almost doubled in the past year.
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