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Mr Berman, Deputy Legal Advisers
HKC370/8
FILE
28
LEGISLATIVE PROGRAMME 1991/92: HONG KONG (APPEALS) BILL
1. With reference to PS's minute to you of 11 June, I propose the following contribution to the
Secretary of State's brief for Cabinet on 13 June. As background, I attach the Secretary of State's minute of 8 May to the Lord President.
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Commitment in Joint Declaration to establish Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal. Needs to be running by 1993 at latest, to gain experience. Expectation in Hong Kong of establishment in 1992.
Important for confidence that HMG do all in its power to ensure smooth transition. Especially true when cooperation with China not going well.
If negotiations with China moved quickly, could find ourselves held up by absence of UK legislation. Look bad in Hong Kong and damage credibility with China.
Still prefer 5th session place. Otherwise would need guarantee of 1st session place to retain option of establishment in 1992.
NESALQ TG
Ashajá
P A Major (Ms)
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