TNAG-2013-FCO40-2865A-Constitutional-development-in-Hong-Kong-1991-1990 — Page 110

HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL — 1 March 1990

香港立法局 ————一九九○年三月一日

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compromise was necessary in the interest of Hong Kong. But whether or not we accept the reasons for Britain's agreement with China, the fact remains that an agreement has been reached and Britain is not likely to break that agreement. Before condemning the political model and rejecting the Basic Law, we must ask ourselves the following questions:

(1) Does Hong Kong have a right of self-determination on its political

future?

(2) Is Hong Kong capable of confronting China on its own?

(3) Will Britain be prepared to enter into confrontation with China over

Hong Kong?

(4) Is confrontation with China in the overall interest of Hong Kong?

(5) Will the Chinese hardliners yield to confrontation?

Bitter experience tells us that the honest answers to all the foregoing questions are in the negative. Then what do we do? Do we take to the streets, tear up the Basic Law and raise havoc or do we wring our hands, rend our hair and despair? Do we continue to shout loudly hoping that someday somehow the Chinese leaders will lend a sympathetic ear? Would any of these actions serve any useful purpose? Would any of these actions help us regain any part of the confidence which Hong Kong people have lost or would it yet worsen the situation?

I am of the view that however strongly we may personally feel about the political model produced by the Basic Law drafters, we must now accept the fact that for the time being, the issue has rested. We must accept this fact courageously, not as defeatists but pragmatic and sensible realists. In saying so, I am not suggesting that we should abandon the OMELCO consensus. It shall remain the political model which I, together with many others, firmly believe to be the best for Hong Kong and we must continue to uphold its merits. It is just that under present circumstances, we have exhausted all means whereby the matter can be further advanced. However, we must remain hopeful that when the skies become clearer and the political climate turns warmer, we may be able to find more understanding from and acceptance by those who now keep us out in the cold.

Actually, it is most unfortunate that the political future of Hong Kong should be decided at a time when Sino-British relationship is most strained and mutual trust and respect appear to be lowest. The tragic events last June shocked Hong Kong and the world but repercussions on China caused by