Kong standards to which it may try to adhere. I know that is presumptuous, but I believe it to be true.
At a time of international change, with people receptive to new ideas, Hong Kong's lifestyle must be known to compare well to that of many other places in the world. Accordingly, I hope that over a period of years stretching up to and way beyond 1997, the project could contribute to the process of moulding a shared understanding between institutions in diverse parts of the world. Particular places need to be targeted. Discussion could cover issues such as the establishment of the rule of law, the maintenance of workable systems of government, the creation of effective administrative systems, autonomy in the public service, and support for independent public organisations and professions. It could cover specific issues such as the environment and drug problems. I hope that it will emphasise the workability of buffers between government and media. It will lay stress on human rights issues. The work could have a number of components, including high-level, seminars, seminars for younger personnel, publications and training programmes. This summer, the Acting-Governor in Hong Kong called on young people to be more alert to international developments. I believe that Hong Kong could have a great deal to offer as a focal point for facilitating contact on international issues, and getting people to consider ideas for possible solutions which could appeal to younger generations elsewhere. Inviting Hong Kong to look outwards will be important at this stage in its history. And I am not referring to emigration.
Some Threats to Lifestyle
The idea of holding the line on a 50 year guarantee is important today, as there are aspects of lifestyle which seem already to be under implicit threat. I have some issues in mind, some of them related to freedom of expression. They include the exercise of free speech beyond 1997, the role of the media, and an aspect of educational policy. I have concerns, too, about aspects of commercial autonomy.
Free Speech, the Media and "Lifestyle"
The publisher of the Chinese language daily Ming Pao, Mr. Louis Cha, has warned that the Hong Kong press may have to "restrain itself voluntarily in the matter of criticism of China's 1leaders and China's policies, especially China's foreign policy". Emily Lau of the Far Eastern Economic Review has described his comments further:-
"He said this because China was not prepared to compromise its
sovereignty over Hong Kong and would not allow Hong Kong to undermine the Communist Party's political control over China.