TNAG-1375-FCO40-1822-Visits-by-Chinese-officials-to-Hong-Kong-1985 — Page 73

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crossing, an even

etc.

etc.

This

larger

container port, a much larger university

system, a more up to date stock exchange, more hotels for tourists,

is practical evidence that we are working

to preserve prosperity and stability, a s we said we

would do in the Joint Declaration, with the aim that by 1997 Hong

Kong will still be a thriving and successful community.

conscientiously

9.

•

As regards the development of representative government it is

important to understand that Hong Kong has now a highly developed

capitalist economic and social system. Over the last 10 or 15 years that system has come both to need and to produce a highly educated

and professional middle class of engineers, lawyers, accountants,

bankers, managers and

communications experts. A s education has

greater and more

in the process of government and have sought to

The

demand for such

We believe

progressed people have come to take a much

articulate interest

play a greater role in government.

participation would have grown irrespective of 1997.

that, far from threatening stability, we have contributed to the

maintenance of stability by responding to that demand, which comes

not just

just from the professional but from the community as a whole.

The professional middle classes, however, although relatively

small in number are of vital importance to Hong Kong's economy and

will not stay in a society which does not meet their aspirations. They in particular will find it easy to leave: our aim is by showing

them that their aspirations can

can be met to encourage them to stay.

10.

The

convincing

Chinese Government too will have to play its part

class this professional

that their aspirations will

in

be

met.

we

We have

80

have proceeded very cautiously.

limited only

indirect elections: there has been

11.

Nevertheless,

far introduced

strong

enough.

arrangements

steps

are

work

needed.

some

clear

that

we

have not

gone

far

criticism from

quarters

We have made

that we wish to see how the present

1987 whether before deciding in 1987

what further

The Chinese themselves have set up a

an

system of

consultation through the Basic Law Drafting Committee and

and Basic Law

Consultative

generate

a great

Committee, which

deal

we

welcome.

on of discussion

This

the kind of

will in itself

structure Hong

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