TNAG-1753-FCO40-2473-Future-of-Hong-Kong-Parliamentary-debates-1988 — Page 15

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COROS

FOROM

KONG Debate-10.6.88

THE LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION

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Janid

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We spoke

House of Lords Westminster

Mr Humthed.

10 JUN 1988

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This House has taken a close interest in the affairs

of Hong Kong over the years due in part to the experience 1016

and knowledge of Hong Kong of many Noble Lords many of whom are down to speak in this debate; this interest has been intensified by the Joint Declaration and subsequent events. We have known from the start that the Basic Law would be the single most important factor following the transfer of power in 1997 and that, more than anything else, it would reflect the will and attitude of the Chinese Government. It will be

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the constitutional instrument by which China will govern Hong Kong. It is natural therefore that the people of Hong

вотн Kong shoul scrutinise it in a mood of hope and apprehension. The first draft of this crucial document was published on April 28th and time for consultation on it will go on until September next. A second draft will be published next year and the final version will be put to the Chinese National People's Congress in 1990. Legally, the formulation of the Basic Law is a matter for the Chinese Government. They have the last word and neither the Government of Hong Kong or of Britain have rights regarding its drafting. In practice, however, Abare is sood deal of resticnos, and

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a realisation that it should comply with the words and spirit of the Joint

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Decr.

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