TNAG-1753-FCO40-2473-Future-of-Hong-Kong-Parliamentary-debates-1988 — Page 29

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24. My Lords, let me conclude by emphasising three points:

First, the Joint Declaration is standing the test of time.

We and the It was and is an excellent agreement for Hong Kong. Chinese Government are totally committed to its implementation;

Second, the people of Hong Kong have the talent and energy to make their future work. They have made Hong Kong a model of free enterprise. It is a success formula which the Joint Declaration and the draft Basic Law are designed to preserve;

Finally, I acknowledge that there are doubts and

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uncertainties about the future. We must pay careful attention to the concerns voiced in Hong Kong, and do all we can to meet them. But I have no doubt whatsoever that the resilience of Hong Kong people; the experience of their Government; and the shared commitment of the British and Chinese Governments can together turn the prospects contained in the Joint Declaration into reality.

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