Implications of above for Hong Kong after 1997
Natural that there is some concern in Hong Kong about the implications of this for Hong Kong people. It should not be a precedent for the SAR. That after all is what 'one country two systems' is all about. I am aware that Chinese officials have made comments denying that there should be any linkage. Nevertheless feel that the best way to put people at ease would be for the Chinese Government to resolve these cases quickly in accordance with its laws.
Au Wing Chung and Wong Cheun Ming: Hong Kong prisoners in Manila
HMG most concerned about the cases of Au Wing Chung and Wong Cheun Ming. Have raised this with the Philippine Ambassador in London and with the Philippine Solicitor General on 10 August during my visit to Manila. Have urged the Philippine authorities to reach a decision on these cases as soon as possible.
(See background note).
Chinese accession to the ICCPR
The Joint Declaration requires that the ICCPR will remain in force to Hong Kong after 1997. There are a number of International Treaties which have been applied to Hong Kong and which we have agreed with the Chinese in the JLG should continue to apply to the SARG. We are discussing with the Chinese the mechanisms to ensure this. If the Chinese remain unwilling to accede to the ICCPR for the whole of its territory, we will need to explore with them the basis for China acceding in respect of the SARG only.
The Secretary of State raised this question when he met the Chinese Foreign Minister Qian Qichen in Peking in June.
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