05-JAN-1993 15:38
CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS BR
+ 852 840 1976
P.09
00
these principles, but
attitude which is to
according to Britain's current
forsake convergence, then this
stove can't be used after 1997. A new stove would then be required. This is what we mean by building a new stove.
Q.
å
A.
This starting anew would certainly affect the British authority over Hong Kong before 1997. According to the Joint Declaration, Britain is responsible for administering Hong Kong before 1997. Will this
starting anew breach the Joint Declaration?
There is no question of a breach. Come 1997, if the stove could not be used, then we'll start anew. If
convergence
agreements,
could be achieved according to previous the existing stove could still be used. No need to build a new one. There is no question of breaching the Joint Declaration. There are certain
misunderstandings.
Some Hong
Kong friends are suggesting a preparatory body. I like to make a point. This is not the Preparatory Committee decided by the National People's congress. That Committee can only be set up in 1996 and we will stick to that. First, no question of setting up such a preparatory body before 1996. Second, this body as suggested by Hong Kong friends cannot become a second power centre before 1997.
Q.
What kind of body are you referring to? If it is not a preparatory body, then what will it be?
main task will be to ensure a smooth transition, this in 1997. A smooth transition requires
A.
Its
to
ensure
a
lot Of work, politically,
•
economically
and
•