COHAND
PRIME MINISTER'S INTERVIEW WITH "LE MONDE": HONG KONG
1.
How can Britain solve the China/Hong Kong problem?
Hong Kong's reversion to China when lease expires in 1997 an inevitable fact of geography and history.
We have worked hard to ensure that Hong Kong reverts on best
possible terms
Nothing that has happened in China has changed fact that Joint Declaration is a very good agreement for Hong Kong. Recent events have if anything increased its importance.
Firmest guarantee of any agreement is that it is based on common
interests. China has massive stake in Hong Kong's continuing
success, both economically and politically. That stake not
diminished by recent events.
China must do what is necessary to restore confidence in Hong
Kong in her commitment to Joint Declaration.
Must now build on Joint Declaration to see what further
reassurances can be given to Hong Kong people.
Will need to take careful look at draft Basic Law when
drafting process resumes to see that concerns of Hong Kong people
are taken fully into account. (For example clauses about China's
right to declare state of emergency in Hong Kong, stationing of PLA
in Hong Kong).
Considering carefully further development of democratic
government: wishes of Hong Kong people fundamental to our approach.
soon as
Hong Kong Government will introduce Bill of Rights as soon
possible.