TNAG-2195-FCO40-3132-Hong-Kong-nationality-package-1990 — Page 127

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Page 12 Para 3: Chinese reaction to the Bill

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I am well aware of the critical reaction of the Chinese

Government to our proposals. They have suggested that what we are proposing to do is inconsistent with the Joint Declaration

and not in the interests of Hong Kong. I have to say that I

see no basis for such assertions As I have already made clear, the Bill is not only consistent with the Joint Declaration: it

is intended to fulfil our responsibilities under that Agreement,

and as a sincere contribution to Hong Kong's successful

transition to Chinese sovereignty in 1997. My Rt Honourable

Friend the Foreign Secretary has taken pains to explain to the

Chinese authorities our reasons for introducing these proposals.

Our task will be to convince them of our good faith. encouraged by the fact that in all they have said about the

Bill, the Chinese Government have at no time suggested that they

will fail to honour their side of the Joint Declaration.

very hopeful that the common commitment of the two Governments

to the Joint Declaration and to the stability and prosperity of

Hong Kong can form the basis of renewed cooperation in the

future.

I am

I am