ENG-1984 — Page 56

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THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT DECLARATION ON THE FUTURE OF HONG KONG

(e) Surveys involving young people: Six surveys, covering a total of 4 200 respondents aged below 25, were conducted by student unions and organisations. All the topics in the draft agreement were found acceptable and the majority of respondents had confidence in Hong Kong's future but expressed a wish for direct elections and participation in drafting the Basic Law.

3.17 Notwithstanding the extent of the response in support of acceptance, it is necessary to pose the question of whether there is a "silent majority" whose views have not been heard. The Office is convinced by the evidence available that the views of the so-called "silent majority" have been reflected in the response received, and that those who have suggested this is not so are unaware of the range and depth of the response from the media, from organisations and groups and from individuals and also clearly in the independent opinion surveys described above.

3.18 The readings obtained by the Office from the views expressed in each of the main categories are consistent one with another. The overall picture which emerges can reasonably be said to be one which gives a true indication of Hong Kong opinion and supports the statement made in paragraph 3.1 above. The range of views is described in Part II of this chapter.

Part II: The Range of Views

3.19 In the following paragraphs the range of views on overall acceptability are sum- marised. Whilst acknowledging the overwhelming extent of overall acceptance, the Office, in examining the views expressed, has not underrated the degree to which those who have accepted the draft agreement have placed on record their concerns.

3.20

The favourable response to the draft agreement ranged from outright praise; to qualified acceptance; to acknowledgement that, in the light of the alternatives, it is the best that can be hoped for. Adverse reaction ranged from condemnation of certain parts of the draft agreement to total rejection.

3.21 The draft agreement was seen to provide a way by which sovereignty could be restored to China peacefully whilst, at the same time, it removed the uncertainties about the future, provided a sound basis for continued prosperity and stability and would preserve for fifty years the familiar life style. The concepts of "one country, two systems" and "the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region with a high degree of autonomy" were praised as imaginative and farsighted. People holding these views were optimistic that the draft agreement would work and that the two sides would honour their commit- ment to Hong Kong.

"The agreement is a clear document and a good one in the light of present day politics. I salute and thank all who worked so hard for the millions living here."

An individual

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"The solution of the Hong Kong issue under the innovative guidance of the 'one country, two systems' concept will be conducive to maintaining the stability and pro- sperity of Hong Kong. Moreover, the success of this 'one country, two systems' arrangement may embody a more far-reaching international significance."

(Translation)

Hong Kong Federation of Education Workers