TNAG-2715-FCO40-3921-House-of-Commons-Select-Committee-on-Foreign-Affairs-enquiry-1993 — Page 40

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MR GOODLAD'S MEETING WITH BACKBENCH FOREIGN AFFAIRS COMMITTEE:

2 NOVEMBER 1993

Checklist of Points

TALKS WITH CHINA ON ELECTION ARRANGEMENTS

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Cooperation with China on the basis of the Joint Declaration

in the best interests of Hong Kong. We are working for a smooth transition to Chinese sovereignty in 1997.

This is why we have been discussing the 1994 and 1995 election

arrangements with China since April (15 Rounds so far). We are

working hard to reach an understanding, so that the Legislative Council elected in 1995 could continue through 1997 for its full

4-year term (the so-called through train).

Agreement would be much the best outcome. But we are not in

the business of making concessions that would put essential principles at risk. Arrangements must be open, fair and acceptable to the people of Hong Kong.

Believe that firmly based democratic institutions are a key

part of safeguarding Hong Kong's way of life and continued economic success

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as promised in the Joint Declaration.

Possible that we may not reach agreement with China, despite

our best efforts. Still a considerable gap between our two positions. In that case our responsibility to put draft legislation to the Legislative Council in good time, so that orderly election arrangements can be made. Time not unlimited.

Weeks rather than months.

back.comm.PR

SLM