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"This we are determined to do. Indeed, I repeat the pledge I gave when I was here in 1967, namely, that we shall continue to maintain
and sustain Hong Kong. It is not insignificant that though there have
been successive defence reviews in recent years, the garrison here has
remained intact.
"When I was here last it was in the dark days of 1967.
During
the period of the troubles the people of Hong Kong remained outstandingly steadfast. It was this, as much as the resolute action of the Government
and through the Government the Police which held in check lawlessness.
"Since then there has been an amazing recovery in the situation
which has permitted trade to expand at a most remarkable rate. The mood
is once again buoyant. We all welcome this.
Strengthening Sterling
"There is also another way in which Britain can help Hong Kong.
This concerns an issue which is at present being fought out in Britain.
"Hong Kong is in the Sterling Area.
"It is essential that sterling should be made strong again. This
depends largely on Britain putting her own house in order. May I for a
few moments speak about this?
nation.
"There are some who speak of Britain as though she were a sick
They look back with nostalgia to a Britain who within living
memory was the world's major imperial power. (In passing, this is itself
was an illusion, because her strength was relative to that of other nations),
But two world wars and the transition from Empire to Commonwealth, have
radically changed Britain's role in the world.
/"If we
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