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Question: Mr Patten, you released a statement concerning the Bill of Rights and democratic development of Hong Kong in future. Would you please summarise...?
Governor: I think that the main point of my statement is a reiteration of the argument put so cogently in her letter to the Chief Executive (designate) by the Chairman of the Bar Association Audrey Eu. She said very clearly that the proposals which are being considered this weekend by the Preparatory Committee to weaken Hong Kong's civil liberties protection, would undermine the rule of law. That was her argument. She further argued and I totally agree that the proposals represent an exercise in legislative futility. How can you strike down laws which are in line with the International Covenants and replace them with laws that aren't, when the Basic Law itself makes it clear that those International Covenants should be applied to Hong Kong. I want to say a couple of other things about the arguments that we've seen in the last few days. People sometimes suggest that Hong Kong doesn't care about civil liberties and human rights. Nothing could be further from the truth. We've seen in recent weeks, in recent days, just how much, just how deeply this community feels about its freedom. We've also seen within weeks of the transition within just over 150 days of the transition, people prepared to stand up and speak out for what they believe in. In this instance, given a lead by the legal profession, both the Bar Association and the Law Society speaking out to protect what is the core of our success as a civil, free society. I very much hope that members of the Preparatory Committee will take account of that when they consider these matters this weekend.
Question: C H Tung had said that he would like to have one or more civil servants in secretary grade to help him in the transition period. What do you say about that?
Governor: I say that the right place to discuss these things is between Mr Tung and myself and the Chief Secretary. And I am sure if Mr Tung has proposals he will put them to us. But I wish to add, I wish to add one other point. I am responsible for the good administration of Hong Kong until June 30. That is British's responsibility. And it is incumbent upon China under Article 30 of the Joint Declaration to support Britain in the good and successful administration of Hong Kong. So I hope we'll see that co- operation and I hope nobody will make any proposals which would make it more difficult to give people in Hong Kong the good government which this community deserves.
Question:... comment on Elizabeth Wong's motion in LegCo?
Governor: That's entirely a matter for the Legislative Council. I was asked the question on the subject last week and replied with my traditional courtesy and restraint.