TNAG-2392-FCO40-3478-Appointment-of-Chris-Patten-as-new-Governor-of-Hong-Kong--Ap-1992 — Page 39

OPENING STATEMENT

I am delighted to have the privilege to serve as the 28th Governor of Hong Kong.

It is a heavy responsibility, and I am honoured to have

the opportunity of discharging it. I know that the Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary attach the highest

importance to maintaining effective British administration of Hong Kong up to 1997. I pledge myself to work with them in achieving that goal.

While I have visited Hong Kong both as a

back-bencher and as a Minister

-

I obviously have much to

learn about it. But I have long admired the Hong Kong success story. And I come to the job with a determination

first and foremost to uphold the interests of all the people

of Hong Kong.

Lord and Lady Wilson (whom I have known for more

than a decade) have done a magnificent job over the last five years.

I will do my best to continue their work and

build on Hong Kong's success in the remaining years of

British administration.

There can be few jobs in public service anywhere as important as the Governorship of Hong Kong. My family and I

are greatly looking forward to starting work.

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