TNAG-1754-FCO40-2474-Future-of-Hong-Kong-Parliamentary-debates-1988 — Page 138

RESTRICTED

13

in the Joint Declaration. We attach great

importance to ensuring that the Basic Law

accurately reflects the Joint Declaration in

this respect. But equally it must be

recognised that a high degree of autonomy is

not the same as independence. Sovereignty

over Hong Kong will of course rest with China

after 1997. It will require the most careful

judgment to get the balance right.

-

Second, the relationship between Hong Kong

and the National People's Congress in Peking

in legislative and judicial matters, as well

as in the interpretation of the Basic Law

itself. This has aroused particular

concern.

It is also a particularly crucial

RESTRICTED