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drafting of the Basic Law will be receptive to their views. assured that the draft is open to amendment in the light of the comments which are expressed.
21.
Where Her Majesty's Government are concerned, I have explained our relationship to the drafting process. The Basic Law has already figured in a number of our exchanges with the Chinese Government. We are grateful for their readiness to brief us on progress and to explain their intentions. Chinese Government spokesmen have encouraged us to convey our comments on the text to them through diplomatic channels, together with comments from the various organs of the Hong Kong Government. We shall certainly do this, in pursuance of the contacts we have already had.
22. In particular, if we conclude that there are elements in the text which are not consistent with the Joint Declaration, we shall certainly bring these to the attention of the Chinese Government. Our representations will be firm. But I think the House will understand if I suggest that they can best be made in confidence through the various channels open to us.
23.
I should conclude by recalling the general commitment of Her Majesty's Government to the Joint Declaration. We are determined to see the full and fruitful implementation of its provisions. So, I have no doubt, are the Chinese government. We are working in active cooperation to give substance to the Joint Declaration and lay the foundation for Hong Kong's stability and prosperity into the next century.
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