relationship between the central authorities and the SAR, the economy, the political structure, rights and duties of Hong Kong inhabitants and education, culture and social questions).
Discussion has taken place in these and other groups and in plenary
meetings, all well reported by the Hong Kong media. After more than two years' work the first draft of the Basic Law was published in
April 1988. A five-month consultation exercise, conducted by the BLCC, was then held in Hong Kong. Two delegations of mainland
members of the BLDC, led by senior Chinese officials, visited Hong
Kong in June and September 1988 to canvass public opinion on the
Draft Basic Law at first hand.
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40. A wide range of views on various aspects of the first draft was expressed during the consultation period. In addition, in June and
July 1988 both Houses of Parliament debated the document. Debates on the first draft were also held in Hong Kong's Legislative
Council, the two Municipal Councils and almost all the District
Boards. The records of most of these debates, including those of
the Parliamentary debates, were conveyed to the Chinese Government through diplomatic channels.
*
41. In November 1988, the five Special Groups under the BLDC resumed their discussions and considered how the first draft should be revised. Following a further plenary meeting held in Canton from 9 to 15 January 1989, a second draft was agreed. After consideration by the Standing Committee of the NPC, this was published in late February 1989 for further public consultation. The results of this second round of consultation will then be
considered by the BLDC. The final version of the Basic Law will be
enacted and promulgated by the NPC in 1990.
42. Although the drafting of the Basic Law is a matter for the Chinese Government, the British Government have the right to satisfy themselves that its provisions fully accord with the terms of the Joint Declaration. The British Government have been following the process very closely, and have had a fruitful dialogue with the Chinese authorities throughout the drafting process. In particular, they have sought to ensure that the Chinese authorities are fully aware of the concerns of Hong Kong people about the draft.