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DSR 11C (Revised 5/87)
negotiation with the Chinese authorities over the Joint
Declaration. At times the odds against success seemed
heavily stacked against us. There were periods of crisis
and uncertainty in the negotiating process. Yet in the
end we won through.
PRIVACY MARKING
In Confidence
9.
The Joint Declaration is a clear statement of the
determination of both governments - Britain and China
to preserve Hong Kong's existing way of life. It
promises Hong Kong a high degree of autonomy to pursue
the policies needed to allow the territory to continue to
prosper. It promises the people of Hong Kong the
protection of the rule of law and the preservations of
their fundamental rights and freedoms.
It states
explicitly that socialism shall not be practised in Hong
Kong. In short, the Joint Declartion recognises that
Hong Kong is
be so.
different from China and must continue to
10.
These are important achievements.
But I would be
the first to admit that against the vivid background of
recent events in China they sound hollow and unconvincing
Confidence has been shattered. The future
at present.
seems clouded with difficulties and uncertainties.
11.
Some people have been quick to discuss the Joint
Declaration as inadequate and irrelevant. They have
concluded that all our efforts to secure Hong Kong's
future have been in vain. Some would like to tear up the
Joint Declaration and start again. I cannot seen any