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(e)
Constitution apply to the SAR.
interpretation of the Basic Law. The agreement does not state
explicitly who will interpret the law. It does however make it
clear that the Basic Law is part of the law of the Hong Kong
SAR, and the courts of Hong Kong must decide cases in
accordance with these laws.
(f) Hong Kong representation on the Joint Liaison Group.
We
Sir Geoffrey Howe has explained to the Unofficials, and stated
in Parliament, that it would be inappropriate for the
Unofficials to serve on what will be a diplomatic body.
will of course wish to consult EXCO fully. We also intend to
ensure the participation of Hong Kong Government officials,
including where appropriate Hong Kong Chinese officials. We
also accept that the British side on the Land Commission, which
will deal with very complex local Hong Kong matters, will need
to consist very largely of Hong Kong Government officials.
(g) Conscription/PLA: The people of Hong Kong are concerned about
the basing of PLA troops in Hong Kong and the possibility of conscription. The Chinese, and in particular Deng Xiaoping,
are very sensitive on these issues and we shall need to tread
very carefully in any discussion with them. In discussion with
the Chinese in the Joint Liaison Group we shall probably wish
to suggest some strengthening of local forces (police or
military) for internal security duties.
(h)
(i)
Nationality: passports. Unofficials are concerned that there should be no change in the format of the passports issued to BDTs until 1997. There is a practical question whether it
would be possible to issue all the new passports in six months.
Moreover such a procedure would not enable immigration services
around the world gradually to become accustomed to the new
documents.
Acceptability of passports. There is some concern whether the new-style British passport will be as acceptable to immigration
officials and the world as the present BDTC passport. We have
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