TNAG-1390-FCO40-1862-Future-of-Hong-Kong-briefing-for-meetings-and-visits-1985 — Page 127

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LADY YOUNGS INTERVIEW WITH AUSTRIAN RADIO

HONG KONG AGREEMENT

POINTS TO MAKE

Agreement signed on 19 December by Prime Minister and

Chinese Premier Zhao Ziyang. Product of two years of intensive

negotiations with Chinese Government on Hong Kong's future.

1.

2. Hong Kong Bill, which will enable UK to implement agreement

was given first reading on 10 January. Second reading to take

place on 21 January. Agreement must be ratified before

30 June 1985.

3.

Agreement remarkable achievement.

International community

welcomed as an example of how to resolve difficult international

issues peacefully. Concept "One country, two systems" imaginative.

4. Under agreement Hong Kong will retain unique economic system

and way of life for 50 years after 1997 as SAR of China. Contains

considerable detail about arrangements after 1997. Is legally

binding international agreement highest commitment

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between sovereign states. Every confidence that China will

adhere to its provisions.

5.

Assessment Office, set up in Hong Kong following publication of

draft agreement, found that majority of people of Hong Kong

considered agreement acceptable. Subsequently debated by

Parliament, who approved decision to sign it.

Lady Young is aware of the background to the future of Hong Kong.

BACKGROUND

6.