action to keep corruption here, whether expressed in kind or in monetary
terms, to an absolute minimum. And that message must be expressed most
strongly to Legislative Councillors, Municipal Councillors, District Board
Members, all of whom are exposed to the temptation of corruption in kind, all
of whom tend to get special privileges which all too soon get taken for
granted. The reason I make this point is that these people are in the public
eye and they must lead by example because in the last analysis, corruption can
only be controlled if those who lead us are incorruptable, and are seen to be
incorruptable.
Considering what I have said there is little wonder that recently our people
lost some considerable confidence in the future of Hong Kong.
The fault clearly lies with the British and Chinese Governments. The Chinese
Government makes pleasant noises, but when it comes to action it reveals a
cast iron fist which cares little for people, and even less for world opinion.
The British Government, especially in their attitude to the nationality
problem, reveals a callous, hypocritical, couldn't care less attitude which
makes one hope that before 1997 another Government will be in power in
Westminster exercising a more considerate and morally correct attitude towards
the problems of our population.
The message to both Governments must be to do something about this now, or
otherwise 1992 onwards may become very difficult years for Hong Kong.
What I have said does not mean that I have become pessimistic about Hong
Kong's future. I still think that Hong Kong will become the commercial
capital of China and that we have a very bright future. What I am saying is
that the risks of something going wrong have become greater, and I am saying
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