(I) Introduction: The United Kingdom's Obligation to Hong
Kong
3.
The report rightly draws attention to the unique
position of Hong Kong as the United Kingdom's only
dependent territory whose people cannot exercise the
fundamental right of self determination. It notes that
it was necessary, in the light of the expiry on 30 June
1997 of the lease on 92% of the land area, to reach an
agreement with China well ahead of that time for the
orderly transfer of sovereignty of the whole territory in
1997 (paragraph 1.6). The Government agree with this
analysis of the background to the negotiations with
China. The Government welcome the Committee's
recognition of the importance of the Joint Declaration
which it describes as a remarkable achievement" (Ibid).
As the report rightly states, the United Kingdom's
obligations stem fundamentally from the unique
characteristics of Hong Kong and from the provisions of
the Joint Declaration (paragraph 1.8). The Government
will honour these obligations. fully They will ensure
the continuation of a strong and efficient administration
in the territory in the years up to 1997, with the aim of
maintaining a stable and prosperous Hong Kong and a
steadily improving quality of life. They will continue
to work with determination/for a smooth and orderly
to
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transfer of sovereignty in 1997 and for the preserva
by Hong Kong's unique characteristics and way of life
through the full and faithful implementation of the Joint
Declaration.
The Committee rightly underlines the need restore.
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