TNAG-1754-FCO40-2474-Future-of-Hong-Kong-Parliamentary-debates-1988 — Page 155

BARAEP

HOUSE OF COMMONS DEBATE ON HONG KONG: 15 JULY 1988

CORE PASSAGE FOR WIND-UP SPEECH

Opening passage:

1. This has been another thoughtful and well-informed debate on Hong Kong. It is a reflection of the high degree of interest which this House has in the affairs of the territory. It is also a reflection of the deep concern felt for Hong Kong and for the future

of its people.

2.

-

That means

we

It is a mark of the We strongly welcome the House's interest. strong and undiminished sense of responsibility which we all feel towards Hong Kong and all its inhabitants. Today's Debate will have left no-one in any doubt that -Parliament and Government alike intend to discharge our responsibilities to the full. doing all we can in the remaining years before 1997 to create the conditions which will enable Hong Kong to continue to prosper in the

future.

And

3. It is right that most speakers have concentrated on the draft Basic Law. It is the instrument which will set out in legal form the principles and policies enshrined in the Joint Declaration. it is thus the Basic Law above all else which can provide the conditions for continuing confidence in Hong Kong, which will enable Hong Kong to continue as a thriving territory in which people will wish to make their home.

4.

and

I have been impressed by the knowledge and insight which Members on all sides of the House have shown in discussing the draft Basic Law. I am sure that those in Hong Kong who are following today's debate will be reassured that the concerns which have emerged in the public debate there have been so clearly reflected in this House. Before I turn to individual points raised in the debate, let me stress again that we are paying very close attention to all views put forward on the Basic Law. I have no doubt that the Chinese authorities are too. We shall ensure that the Hansard

BARAEP