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after 1997 would be enshrined in the agreement that both sides are aiming to conclude. Clearly I cannot go into details about the content of the talks or of a likely agreement. But it is clearly very important that the eventual Basic Law should reflect the
content of the agreement, which we hope to see take the form of a binding agreement setting out the arrangements to be maintained in
Hong Kong for at least 50 years after 1997.
[For use only if pressed on relationship in time between ratification and drafting of Basic Law).
I cannot, as members will understand, go into the details of our position in these confidential negotiations.
Concerns of Hong Kong Public Service
19. We are fully aware of the concerns of civil servants in Hong Kong. I would like to pay tribute to the members of the Hong Kong public service, who have continued during these uncertain times to show an, admirably responsible attitude to their work and to the people whom they serve. They are naturally worried about the security of their jobs and the preservation of their conditions of service after 1997. I can
assure them that it is our aim to reach an agreement with the Chinese that maintains the maximum possible degree of continuity in this vital area.
Has Fifty Year Assurance been given in the Talks?
20. Cannot divulge details of talks. But Premier Zhao has given this assurance publicly, and I am sure he would not do so lightly.
Juxtaposition of Communist China/Capitalist Hong Kong
21. The Chinese Government have publicly made clear that they recognise Hong Kong's special circumstances. They have also made clear that they share our desire for continuity in Hong Kong's systems and lifestyle. We believe that these are the basis of Hong Kong's stability and prosperity, the maintenance of which is the agreed common aim of the talks on Hong Kong's future. We are in
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