TNAG-1327-FCO40-1740-Future-of-Hong-Kong-Ministerial-statements-1984 — Page 5

CONFIDENTIAL

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DRAFT SPEECH BY MR LUCE, DECEMBER, 1982: HONG KONG AGREEMENT

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INTRODUCTION

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1. I should like to thank hon Members for their contributions to

the debate. It is one of historic importance. The number of speakers, and the quality of their contributions, testify to the

depth of the commitment of this House to Hong Kong and its future.

Many have spoken from a deep knowledge and understanding of the

territory. I believe the seriousness with which this House has

debated the draft agreement illustrates the depth of our sense of responsibility towards Hong Kong and its five and a half million

people.

We are

2. I think that the sense of the debate is clear. While there are

some understandable worries and concerns about aspects of the

future, the agreement is judged by most speakers to provide a good

and thus to be generally diliş tabli basis for the future of the territory The concerns, as I say, are

understandable. To brush them aside would be irresponsible. speaking of momentous changes, and we should bear in mind all their implications. The points of detail raised by hon Members will be borne in mind by all those with a responsibility for putting the agreement into effect. They will form a basis for our discussions during the next 13 years with the Chinese Government, particularly

in the Joint Liaison Group.

CONFIDENTIAL