WHAT ARE THE PROBLEMS ON OTHER ISSUES?
Still hope for further talks, so do not want to get into details.
But the main outstanding issues are: the Functional Constituencies, where we offered in the talks to scale down the Governor' original proposals while still retaining a broad franchise; the Election Committee, where we are prepared to take account of the Chinese concerns about the format, provided that all the members of this Committee are themselves elected; and the Through Train, where we want it agreed that legislators will not in 1997 be subjected to any test of past political behaviour.
IF THE CHINESE SIDE PROPOSED MORE TALKS BEFORE FURTHER LEGISLATION IS INTRODUCED WOULD YOU AGREE?
We would study any Chinese communication, as we always do.
The legislative process is underway on the more straightforward issues and we will soon need to deal with the remaining ones. But if the Chinese side wanted to meet to talk about these remaining issues we would be at the table.
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.
The legislation introduced by the Governor 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.
Under the Joint Declaration, Britain is responsible for administering Hong Kong up to July 1997, and the Chinese Government is committed to giving its cooperation in this connection.
WHAT WILL BECOME OF THE THROUGH TRAIN?/SMOOTH TRANSITION
We continue to believe that continuity and a smooth transfer of Government in 1997 is in the best interests of Hong Kong.
Our aim remains electoral arrangements which are consistent with the Basic Law. In that case no reason not to have a through train.
supp.3.12.BB.JRB
4