TNAG-2769-FCO40-3986-Hong-Kong-and-the-media-interviews--press-briefings-and-the--1994 — Page 98

Statement by the Foreign Secretary (Sir G Howe)

5 July 1989

I was able to confirm as common ground that the Joint

Declaration, with its prospect of the greatest possible

autonomy, remains the best foundation for Hong Kong's future.

In particular, there is scope for reviewing the rate of progress towards representative government. In this, the wishes of the people of Hong Kong will continue to be fundamental to

our approach.

Secretary of State's statement to the House

16 February 1990

We shall continue to press the case for a faster pace of

democratisation. Opinion in Hong Kong and policy in China on this matter have both moved a long way since 1984. There will

be further evolution between now and 1997.

dec.mt.PR

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