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Supplementary points to make
Glad that full opportunity will be given to Hong Kong people in particular to express views on draft. No doubt there will be lively
debate in Hong Kong, wide range of comments will be put forward.
In future exchanges with Chinese authorities, we shall go on stating our views clearly and firmly. But do not think it would
assist our objective to make public representations to Chinese
Government.
Primary purpose of Basic Law is to stipulate China's basic
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 consider ed
a whole. Wrong to focus only on certain articles and draw conclusions from them about acceptability of text as a whole.
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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
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