Abstract
101. The best guarantee of Hong Kong's prosperity for as far ahead as any of us can see or envisage is to protect our way of life. The continuation of Hong Kong's way of life is a major concern of the Joint Declaration, which my predecessor, the late Sir Edward Youde, played such a prominent part in negotiating. An integral part of this way of life—of what is called our "system"—is the participation of individual citizens in the conduct of Hong Kong's affairs. The pace at which we broaden this participation, and the bounds to which we can extend it, lie at the heart of much public debate here and elsewhere. This discussion about democracy in Hong Kong is one on which I wish to make my own beliefs and objectives clear. The sooner we can resolve the important issues at stake in a way that satisfies our own community, and—I hope—our friends in China and the United Kingdom, the better. But I begin with the assumption that unless the people of Hong Kong are content with the final outcome, it is unlikely to work as well as everyone, from here to Peking and London and back again, would surely wish.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
