TNAG-1933-FCO40-2759-Future-of-Hong-Kong-13th-meeting-of-the-Sino-British-Joint-L-1989 — Page 25

COLACL

JLG XIII: PRESS CONFERENCE

Non-attributable Material

PLA

HKC031/22

2/10

136

Have never

British views have been made clear on many occasions.

challenged right of Chinese government to send forces to Hong Kong

for defence. But issue a highly sensitive one. China could make

major contribution to the restoration of confidence in Hong Kong if

it were to deal with issue in a way which respected those

sensitivities.

State of Emergency

Joint Declaration lays down that the SAR will be responsible for

public order. There are now in Hong Kong laws and powers governing

emergency situations which allow Hong Kong to declare a state of

emergency on its own in time of peace. Hope that these can remain

after 1997.

Constitutional Development

Explained to

Chinese side that views on the future structure of

government, and in particular on the future legislature, have

emerged in recent months which are commanding increasingly wise

support within the Hong Kong community. Hope the Chinese Government

will heed these views and reflect them in the final draft of the

Basic Law. Mainland drafters very welcome to visit Hong Kong at any

time to hear views.

Interpretation of the Basic Law

Joint Declaration makes clear that Hong Kong will enjoy

autonomous legislative and judicial power in areas which do not

touch on foreign and defence affairs. Important that Basic Law

properly reflects those provisions.