02 DEC '92 11:10 M & CO 3 LOMBARD ST.
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First it must be for Hong Kong's people to decide for
themselves how far they want to go in extending democracy pre-
1997. It is their future: and they have to live with China. They will certainly factor in Chinese views when they reach their
judgement.
Chris Patten's proposals are now being debated in Hong Kong. Some alternatives have already been put forward. Others
will likely emerge in the next few weeks. [Once everything is on
the table, Chris Patten will make his considered
recommendations. But it will be up to Hong Kong's Legislative Council, its parliament, to have the last word. It can accept,
reject or modify his ideas.
Second, since the Joint Declaration of 1984, Hong Kong's
future has been charted in consultation with China and by agreement with China. That agreement is needed now if people
are to have confidence in Hong Kong's futu
sture.]
While Britain is responsible for Hong Kong right up to 1997, we have prudently taken account of Beijing's views. Some call that kow-towing. But it's easy to be heroic from afar. The plain fact is that Hong Kong's future depends on China and any constitutional change worth having requires China's assent if it is
to survive after 1997.
97.] The quicker
Lan
are ce gel back lo
Sensible discussion mit Chine about Mary Long's future, the tetter.
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