WHAT IS THE POINT OF HAVING ELECTIONS IN 1995 IF THE CHINESE
HOLD NEW ONES IN 1997?
It is our plain duty to administer Hong Kong to the best of
our ability until 30 June 1997. That includes holding these
elections.
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The legislation we will be introducing responds to the evident desire for more democracy in Hong Kong; they are
consistent with the Basic Law, and in many respects reflect agreed positions in the talks.
A good deal of water will flow under the bridge between now
and 1997.
The Chinese Government has a strong interest in a smooth
transfer of power in 1997. If the arrangements in place are
then working well and are consistent with the Joint
Declaration and the Basic Law - cannot see whey they should be changed.
WHY NOT GO FOR A 100% DIRECTLY-ELECTED LEGCO IN 1995?
Our aim all along has been to reconcile two things:
meeting the Hong Kong people's wish for a credible democratic system;
putting in place arrangements which can survive beyond
1997.
That is why the Governor's proposals were carefully within
the terms of the Basic Law. We still believe that this is
the right approach.
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s.3.12.PR.JRB