ARRACA (2)
5. On my last visit, concern was expressed about the treatment which some Hong Kong travellers were encountering at UK ports of entry. As you know I have looked into this matter very carefully and a number of changes have been introduced. I very much hope that this will serve to reassure Hong Kong travellers that they are welcome to visit Britain and that the problems will not recur.
are monitoring this situation carefully.
We
6. Another matter which I am following with the closest possible interest is the drafting of the Basic Law. This has now entered a crucial phase, with the current meeting of the Basic Law Drafting Committee in Guangzhou. I have been reasonably encouraged by some of the changes made to the draft. But I am well aware that the provisions on the future political system are a matter of intense debate in Hong Kong. We must await the revised draft before taking a final view. In the meantime I would be very interested in your
comments.
7. As I have just indicated, I attach great importance to frequent and regular contact between us. But this should not just take place in Hong Kong. I would like to see more of you come to the UK too. I am therefore proposing that a group of members of LegCo come to Britain as guests of the British Government early this year. Further visits can follow on the same basis. I hope it will be possible to ensure that all of you have the opportunity to become familiar with Britain, if you are not so already.
8. Once again thank you for your welcome. I look forward to hearing your views.