Foreign Affairs committee  One of the things the government is pointing out is the irony that the pan-democrats are going to veto democracy. That's one of their driving points because, if you're a pragmatic person, I think you will appreciate that having some development is better than the existing system.

Foreign Affairs committee  The joint declaration doesn't say very much. It says elections or consultation.

Foreign Affairs committee  So is it compliant on the letter? Yes. As for the spirit of it, we can go around in circles talking about that. But in terms of the basic law, again I think this is something you have to give China some credit for. They are trying to work with the language of article 45 and the p

Foreign Affairs committee  You're assuming it was left out. We don't know if anyone ever suggested it. I think the two parties, the U.K. and China were content that the word be “elections” and to keep it vague, with the knowledge that these things would be fleshed out later on. But of course, you have to

Foreign Affairs committee  If any compromise occurs, it has to be within the structure of the nominating committee. In fact, what just came out in April is quite interesting. I don't think people fully grasp the implications of it, because although the composition of this nominating committee is the same a

Foreign Affairs committee  Thank you, Chairman and honourable members. Let me begin by saying it's a real honour to be giving evidence today. A quick word about my background. I'm sure many of you have already detected the North American accent. I'm sure some of the more perceptive of you will have dete