PAUL SIMON
LINOIS
United States Senate
10111
WASHINGTON, DC 205 10-1302
November 5, 1992
COMMITTEES:
LABOR AND HUMAN RESOURCES
JUDICIARY
FOREIGN RELATIONS
BUDGET
INDIAN AFFAIRS
The Honorable John Major
Prime Minister
10 Downing Street
London, SW1
United Kingdom
Dear Prime Minister:
I am writing to convey my concern about present and future political developments in Hong Kong. One month ago, Congress passed the United States-Hong Kong Policy Act of 1992. This Act expressed the sense of Congress as to the United States' desire to continue close relations with Hong Kong after June 30, 1997.
As one of the original sponsors of this bill, I am convinced that the citizens of Hong Kong will be better able to continue their way of life after 1997 if they are given the chance to strengthen their limited democracy now. Hong Kong's new Governor, Christopher Patten, has repeatedly declared his intention to expand democracy in Hong Kong. I wish him every success. the results of his efforts to date are not promising.
But
The People's Republic of China's increasingly cynical interpretation of its obligations under the terms of the "Joint Declaration" is cause for considerable concern. Besides this obvious threat, I am hopeful that more can be done soon to strengthen the roots of democracy in Hong Kong. I firmly believe that strong democratic institutions in Hong Kong will prevail after 1997 if given the opportunity to grow now.
The United Kingdom and the United States both have a vested interest in the future of Hong Kong. i respectfully urge you to make democracy in Hong Kong a high priority of your government. I will do my part to do the same in the United States.
Thank you for your consideration.
PS/es
Cordially
Paulton
Paul Simon U.S. Senator
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