TNAG-2212-FCO40-3172-Hong-Kong-annual-report-for-1990-1991 — Page 103

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The Government have sought to bolster confidence in

Hong Kong in other ways too. In November, the British Nationality (Hong Kong) Act became law. It provides for 50,000 key workers in Hong Kong and their dependents to be

given full British citizenship without having to leave Hong Kong. The Act has undoubtedly helped to provide

reassurance at a time when confidence in the territory was

at a low ebb and has demonstrated in a tangible way our strong and continuing commitment to Hong Kong. Some 65,000

people have applied for the 43,800 places available in the

first tranche of the scheme an overscription of some 50%.

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Another important event in 1990 was the promulgation by China of the Basic Law, which gives legal effect to the provisions of the Joint Declaration. Although the drafting

of the Basic Law was a matter for China, the Government

sought through various means, to influence the outcome.

believe that the result is a satisfactory Basic Law which

acceptably reflects the Joint Declaration.

I

The Basic Law establishes a framework for the further

development of democracy in Hong Kong after 1997. That

process is already well underway, and this year's elections

will mark a major step forward. Our goal is to see the

steady evolution of responsible, constructive and

participatory democracy, which will serve Hong Kong well,

both in the remaining years of the British administration

and beyond. It is an objective which the Government are

confident can be achieved.

Hong Kong's future success also depends on the development

of its own assets. Its superb natural harbour, its well-

educated and highly-motivated labour force, and its advanced

infrastructure place Hong Kong in a unique position to serve

both as the engine of economic growth in South China and as

an important international and regional financial centre.

OAKACJ/2

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