LINE TO TAKE FOR THE SPEAKER HKD241/1
HONG KONG
RECEIVE NEGISTRY
INC
20 FED 1990
DESK OFFI
REGISTRY
-Action Taken
BILL OF RIGHTS
FILE®
Joint Declaration provides for the two Convenants on Human Rights to remain in force in Hong Kong after 1997.
No conflict with Chinese over this. Reflected in current draft of
Basic Law.
-
Purpose of Bill of Rights is to set out clearly the provisions of one of the Covenants (on Civil and Political Rights) which had previously been implemented in Hong Kong through various means. Will give effect in local law and enable individuals to seek
redress in courts.
(Entrenchment)
Exact form of Bill still under consideration by Hong Kong
Government. Our aim has always been to provide best possible guarantee of human rights in Hong Kong both before and after 1997.
Important to note that, whether or not Bill is entrenched, entrenchment of rights themselves already provided for in Joint
Declaration.
(Consultation with Chinese)
Drafting of Bill matter for Hong Kong Government. Draft Bill will be published for consultation. If Chinese wish to make known their views through appropriate channels, we will of course listen.
NESADW