TNAG-1438-FCO40-1922-Constitutional-development-in-Hong-Kong-1986 — Page 125

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come up with comments which re conducive to the territory's transition

towards 1997 and to its prosperity and stability. By candialy

pinpointing the root of the problem and reminding those who are

concerned about Hong Kong's future to give careful thought to the question

of dovetailing the two systems, Mr Xu had in fact done something

favourable and not harmful to the overall situation. This is more

useful and constructive than saying one thing and, at the same time,

hiding something entirely different up one's sleeves. Therefore, to

keep silent is a bad move, to speak up late is a mediocre move, but

to call people's attention right now to the question of dovetailing

is an excellent move.

As it is an objective fact that the pace of constitutional

reforms has quickened, China cannot get away with such cursory

remarks as "no comment" and "assume no responsibility". Not a few

commentators and members of the media have made their views known to

the NCNA's local office. They ask whether a draft constitution should

be drawn up for Hong kong before the Basic Law is subject to discussion.

They suggest that the draft be open for discussion by the public so

that public views can be collected. This work should preferrably

begin before 1987 and the public will be given guidelines for

uiscussion. The published draft is not final and will go through

the process of extensive discussion and endorsement by the relevant

authorities several times around. Such a measure will enable the

Basic Law to assume a leading role in the development of Hong Kong's

future political system and will help to bridge the two together.

In response to the questions of reporters, the NCNA director

also observed that the idea of publishing in advance the part of the

Basic Law on constitutional arrangements is a sign of concern and

responsibility towarus Hong Kong's stability and prosperity.

his opinion, speed and quality are both essential. If quality has to

be sacrificed for speed, it would be better to slow down a bit.

/.....