CONFIDENTIAL
Chinese
to comment on draft Basic Law over next five months.
Government have said they welcome views from all quarters.
Drafting of Basic Law is of course responsibility of Chinese
Government. But we will wish to satisfy ourselves that Basic Law accurately reflects provisions of Joint Declaration. Both governments fully committed to faithful implementation of Joint
Declaration.
We are studying draft Basic Law carefully. Will also be paying
close attention to views of Hong Kong people. If there are any
points we consider to be inconsistent with Joint Declaration, will
make our views known to Chinese authorities, clearly and firmly in
most effective way.
Virtually all provisions of Joint Declaration are reflected in
draft Basic Law, a number 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").
CONTACTS WITH CHINESE?
Variety of channels open to us. Basic Law has already featured in range of exchanges with Chinese authorities (eg myself with former Foreign Minister Wu; Governor with Chinese officials).
Exchanges will continue. But do not think it would assist our
objectives to make public representations.
ASSESSMENT OF BASIC LAW
Initial study indicates that draft is a broadly reasonable
document though, as Chinese officials point out, it is by no means
perfect. There are particular areas which are already focus of discussion in Hong Kong. If there are provisions in draft which
need revision, Hong Kong people should put to Chinese Government
clear and sensible alternatives. No reason to doubt Hong Kong
people's ability to do so or Chinese willingness to listen. We shall do all we can to press for improvement where defects are
perceived in text.
CONFIDENTIAL
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.