relationship must be based on frank discussions of mutual difficulties in order to achieve a solution which reflects our common goals. I am confident that we can do so
In fact the Governor make it clear from the moment
of his arrival in Hong Kong that he regarded cooperation with China as "perhaps the most vital and challenging' of the tasks facing him. He said this in his swearing-in speech at the City Hall on 9 July, and went on: "good cooperation with China is my sincere aim and my profound wish". So there can be no reasonable doubt over the Governor's attitude on this point.
As I emphasised during the debate, we and the Governor attach importance to cooperation with China in the interests of a smooth transition for Hong Kong. The Governor's proposals were carefully framed so that they were consistent with the Joint Declaration and the Basic Law. We still hope that it will be possible to have a constructive discussion about them with the Chinese Government. We are, of course, open to any alternatives which they or others wish to put forward.
Yours sincerely
چلو
Linder, Challer & Walary
سلمة
*BARONESS CHALKER OF WALLASEY
Casey