1997: a Hong Kong in which the necessary investment has been made for tomorrow or a Hong Kong which has become
static and has lost the confidence to face the challenges
of the next century.
The only way to tackle these problems is to talk to the Chinese. Most people in Hong Kong understand that:
they, after all, have been living on China's doorstep for
their whole lives. At the same time, people in Hong Kong
want Britain to stand up for their rights, but to do so in a way which preserves good relations with Peking. This remit, which could be summarised as "Protect us, but
please do so without causing waves", is not easy to
fulfil.
We must aim for as smooth a transition as possible.
in 1997 and the protection of Hong Kong's position in
China. I am sure that the one goes with the other. То
achieve this we need to try to change gear in our
dealings with China over Hong Kong. I am not sure if this is yet possible, but I am sure that it is worth the
effort. I do not believe that there is a fundamental
difference in the interests of China, Hong Kong and
Britain. All three want to make a success of two systems
in one country. But the Chinese have not yet shown that
they understand in practice how this principle should
guide their words and actions between now and 1997.
Hong Kong is like a fragile and immensely valuable piece of porcelain: it cannot be buffeted about like everyday
tableware without the risk of it breaking and becoming
worthless.
We have no intention of abdicating our
responsibility to Hong Kong during this period. The
Nationality Act, the first introduction of democracy into