RESTRICTED
must be sure that it commands unequivocal support of community as a
whole. But White Paper establishes clear timing for introduction of 10 directly elected seats in LegCo in 1991. Will represent 17% of
total.
7. Well aware that some may argue that this is insufficient. Do not believe however that this view is genuinely representative of opinion in Hong Kong. Community as a whole has confidence in present system; wants it to evolve steadily and gradually; and above all seeks continuity before and after 1997. Believe that decisions in White Paper faithfully reflect these wishes, while meeting fully people's legitimate aspirations for a system of more representative
government.
8. These decisions also take account of work now in hand to draft
Basic Law for post-1997 Hong Kong, in which Hong Kong representatives are closely involved. Best guarantee that changes to be introduced in 1991 will endure in the years after 1997. Only
by setting decisions in this context can we be sure that they reflect interests of all Hong Kong people and of Hong Kong's long
term stability and prosperity.
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