5. There are those who say, what guarantee is there for Hong Kong's
future in pieces of paper?
Answer
-
JD is a binding international agreement, registered at un.
has not reneged on any international agreement.
PRC
China's leadership have repeatedly assured us that their policy
towards Hong Kong will not be affected by the events of last June
and have reaffirmed their commitment to the "one country, two
systems" policy.
China has a massive economic and political stake in Hong Kong.
Since JD entered into force in May 1985, we and Chinese
Government have been working together through the Sino-British Joint
Liaison Group to put flesh on the bones of the JD and to pave way
for a smooth transition in 1997. Why should they waste so much
diplomatic time and energy if they do not intend "one country
systems to work?
two
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China has always had the capacity to intervene decisively in
Hong Kong's affairs but has consistently refrained from doing so.
The "one country, two systems" policy shows that this pragmatic attitude still prevails.
6. We are committed to continuing to cooperate with China to
implement fully the JD. Involves many and varied practical,
political and legal problems. Since among lawyers, will concentrate
this evening on the legal picture.
7. Basic Law in effect mini-constitution for Hong Kong, enacted
under China's legal system which, in so far as it corresponds to
Western legal thought, has been influenced by the civil law system.
But it is to be applied to Hong Kong which is a common law
jurisdiction and whose current laws will broadly continue in force.
Interplay of the two different traditions a unique legal challenge.
8.
Examples of issues it throws up.
BODABW