TNAG-1136-FCO40-1416-Address-by-Sir-Edward-Youde--Governor-of-Hong-Kong--to-the-L-1982 — Page 19

16

Hong Kong has emerged as a modern, diversified economy,

a major force in world trade and a financial centre of

global significance.

36.

We should also retain a sense of historical

perspective.

Dr Rayson Huang noted that "we have

lived with and triumphed over economic and political uncertainty before".

Miss Dunn reminded us that

"during the past 40 years our stability and prosperity have been threatened and, indeed, impaired, on many

occasions".

Yet those qualities which distinguish

Hong Kong people has ensured our survival.

37.

Steady nerves will be required of all

of us over the coming months. And we must all work

together in an atmosphere of mutual trust. The Government will play its part in developing such an atmosphere through the consultative system and, particularly, by working in close concert with Unofficial Members of the Executive

and Legislative Councils.

38.

Meanwhile, as you said, Sir, the Government will continue to "invest vigorously in the future of Hong Kong and its people".

I need not add to what the Financial

Secretary has said in elaboration of that theme. I shall

only reiterate that this Government cares for the people of Hong Kong from wherever, and whenever, they have come

here.

In Mr Lobo's words "nothing that is happening has taken away from us the will and the duty to improve the living and working conditions of all classes in our community". So I would conclude by echoing Miss Dunn: "this whole community is engaged in, and committed to, a common enterprise which is to see this city of ours safely through this present phase in its history".

I echo these words for it is the Government's firm intention that Hong Kong shall remain, as a free society, a desirable, rewarding, and challenging place to live and

work in.

39.

Sir, I beg to move.