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Governor's proposals. But I think that even the Chinese now recognise that the Governor was serious when he said that he
was putting forward proposals, and was ready to consider
alternative proposals from others. Many such alternatives
have now come forward. The Legislative Council will have to consider them alongside the Governor's proposals. It is right that they should have the responsibility for striking the
balance.
We also stand ready to discuss these issues with the Chinese
side whenever they are ready for this. As I emphasised in the
Lords, we want to return to a cooperative relationship with China as well as developing representative institutions within
the terms of the Joint Declaration and the Basic Law.
BARONESS CHALKER