TNAG-1754-FCO40-2474-Future-of-Hong-Kong-Parliamentary-debates-1988 — Page 131

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6

Basic Law being conducted by the Chinese

authorities is equally thorough and

painstaking. A crucial phase began at the end

of April with the publication of a first

draft. And it will continue for 5 months

until the end of September.

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The way in which this exercise is handled will

have a major effect on confidence in Hong Kong

and on how Hong Kong people view their future.

It is a heavy responsibility for the Chinese

Government: but one which I have no doubt they

recognise and accept.

Their whole approach to the drafting exercise

has demonstrated this:

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