TNAG-1322-FCO40-1728-Future-of-Hong-Kong-opinion-polls-and-surveys-1984 — Page 229

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Conclusion:

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According to the findings, 97% of the residents feel that public views on Hong Kong's future should be consulted before the Sino-British talks reach an agreement. Most residents feel that acceptable views should be discussed at the meeting and the HK Government should negotiate with the Chinese government based on the findings of the public opinion poll. The findings also indicate that HK people value personal freedom and freedom of speech above wealth and employment.

A noteworthy point is that the residents generally believe that Hong Kong will inevitably revert to China in 1997 and thus any complaint after 1997 will be lodged to the Chinese authorities. It is surprising to note that more people advocate complaining to the United Nations than to the British government. This shows that the public believe Britain will abandon Hongkong people after 1997.

(2) Ming Yan House, Yuet Ming Estate (adult population around 2400)

Of the 128 returns, 126 are of the opinion that the public should be consulted before a Sino-British agreement is reached. The methods of consultation are as follows:

i

Set up an opinion gathering station for the public to

submit their views in writing

(57)

Set up public opinion poll stations for the public to

air their views in person

(44)

Encourage trade unions and community groups to conduct

opinion polls

(41)

37 33)

Conduct residents' rallies in various districts Set up a telephone hot-line Conduct a door-to-door survey

(35)

2/3 of the respondents feel that the views of the majority of residents should be put forward at the talks (80). Some of the respon- dents (51) hoped that elected representatives from Hong Kong can attend the Sino-British talks to air their views. 49 respondents feel that the HK Government should negotiate with the Chinese in accordance with public wishes.

with

Under the future social system, the great majority of the res- pondents (113) are concerned about preservation of all kinds of personal freedom, including freedom of speech, religion, property disposal, travel, education, housing, bearing children, entertainment, profession and rule of law.

44 of the residents suggest complaining to the United Nations if their future lifestyle is restricted by government policies. 41 suggest complaining to the highest Chinese authority, 29 to the local departments concerned and 22 to the British government. 22 of the res- pondents said they will either suffer silently, leave the territory or resist the policies.