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DSR 11C (Revised 5/87)
careful look at the programme to advance and consolidate
democracy in Hong Kong. We have always sought to develop
democracy in line with the wishes of the community as a
whole; and to ensure that what is achieved under British
administration is firm and durable. These will remain
the guiding principles as we consider the way forward.
PRIVACY MARKING
In Confidence
20.
It is inevitable that recent events in China have
caused Hong Kong people to think deeply about democracy.
I have the impression that views are still in a state of
It will take some time understandably
flux.
opinion to crystalise.
H
for
-
Hong
we
But if as we all hope
Kong can achieve a consensus on this complex matter,
would certainly want to reflect this. In the meantime,
an instant response would provide no instant solution.
Nor can democracy by itself provide an answer to Hong
Kong's concerns.
21. We will also need to take a close look at the draft
Basic Law in the light of recent events. I continue to
believe that there is much in that document which is
already entirely satisfactory from Hong Kong's point of
view. But if the Basic Law is to command confidence in
Hong Kong it will be important to ensure that all our
concerns are properly catered for. When the consultation
and drafting process resumes as it will inevitably have
-
to do we shall be closely involved.
22. It is understandable people in Hong Kong should be
concerned about the protection of their fundamental
No comments yet.
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