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Hong Kong SAR will have high degree of autonomy, not absolute autonomy or independence. Inevitable that certain powers will be
reserved to central authorities, as they are today.
[For general use]
Glad that full opportunity has been given to Hong Kong people
to comment on draft Basic Law over next four months. Chinese
Government have said they welcome views from all quarters. Hope
Hong Kong people will take full advantage of this.
Drafting of Basic Law is of course responsibility of Chinese
Government. But we will wish to satisfy ourselves that Basic Law
accurately reflects provisions of Joint Declaration.
We are studying draft Basic Law carefully. Will also be paying close attention to views of Hong Kong people. We have already made
it clear we shall ensure that concerns of Hong Kong people are
brought to attention of Chinese Government. And where there are
provisions in draft Basic Law which may not be consistent with Joint
Declaration we shall be ready to take this up with Chinese
authorities. We will make our views known clearly and firmly.
Virtually all provisions of Joint Declaration are reflected in
draft Basic Law, a number word for word. But as I stated in
Parliament, some parts are not yet right.
acknowledge that.
Chinese spokesmen readily
CONTACTS WITH CHINESE?
Variety of channels open to us. Basic Law has already featured
in range of exchanges with Chinese authorities (ey Foreign Secretary
with former Foreign Minister Wu; Governor with Chinese officials).
Exchanges will continue. But do not think it would assist our
objectives to conduct these exchanges in public.
ASSESSMENT OF BASIC LAW
Draft is outcome of considerable effort, commendably open
drafting process. But as Chinese officials point out, it is by no means perfect. There are particular areas which are already focus of discussion in Hong Kong. If there are provisions in draft which
need revision, Hong Kong people should put to Chinese Government
CONFIDENTIAL