Declaration after 1997; and that it would promote stability in Hong Kong because people would not feel it necessary to secure their future by emigrating. The Government do not however believe that it would be sensible, or acceptable to Parliament, to give over 3 million people the automatic right to enter this country, even if the majority had no intention of exercising this right. Any change in the status of Hong Kong BDTCs would of course require a change in the 1981 British Nationality Act, which was endorsed (as was earlier legislation on the subject) by Parliament. Such a move could be interpreted as a vote of no confidence in Hong Kong's future.
XIII:
Conclusion
60. If no negotiations had been held, 92% of Hong Kong would have reverted to China in 1997 without any safeguards. Instead, the Government concluded a detailed, binding Agreement which provides for the preservation of Hong Kong's economic, legal and social systems, and the way of life of its people for 50 years beyond 1997, and establishes the basis for a secure and prosperous future for the territory. A great deal of effort is now being put into the task of ensuring that the Agreement is implemented fully. It is difficult
and painstaking task. Much still remains to be done. But the Government are determined to play their full part in ensuring the. success of this unique and historic enterprise.
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