TNAG-1740-FCO40-2456-Relations-between-Hong-Kong-and-the-UK-Parliament-1988 — Page 108

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policies regarding Hong Kong, as enunciated in the Joint Declaration

and its annex I. Virtually all Joint Declaration provisions are

indeed reflected in draft Basic Law, some word for word. This is

important. Believe it reflects Chinese sincerity, adherence to

principles underlying Joint Declaration. ("one country two

systems" "Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong").

A comprehensive document, 173 articles plus annexes. Drafted

by the Basic Law Drafting Committee, which has a substantial number

of Hong Kong people from all walks of life. Takes account also of

broad range of views expressed by Hong Kong people in the Basic Law

Consultative Committee. Deserves careful study. Must be considered

as a whole. Wrong to focus only on certain articles and draw

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conclusions from them about acceptability of text as a whole.

Must also bear in mind that we are at the beginning of lengthy

and careful process of public consultation. In some areas

alternative options still exist. Natural that there should be

discussion about certain provisions, and that some who study text

may feel there is room for improvement in some areas. That is what

public consultation is for. Plenty of time and scope has been

allowed for discussion and amendment.

Basic Law must be seen in context of Hong Kong, not in isolation as abstract concept. Need to bear in mind present systems

and traditions in Hong Kong, and how they have evolved up to now.

Must take account of what is familiar to Hong Kong people and

accepted by them.

Some issues which will give rise to considerable public debate

(eg selection of Chief Executive, election of legislature,

relationship between the executive and the legislature, formation of

first SAR Government). These are particularly important topics:

natural that differing views should be held. Moreover Joint

Declaration only provides a very broad framework: room for debate on precise details. Obviously, people holding different views on how the system of government in Hong Kong might develop will take

different stands on the draft Basic Law provisions in this area.

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