Chinese premier Li Peng said China had no objections to Britain having a big handover ceremony next year. In an interview with the Financial Times published yesterday, Mr Li said: 'Maybe some politicians in Britain hope the handover ceremony can symbolise the glorious or honourable withdrawal of Britain from Hong Kong. 'We have no objection to that because that means we can take over in a dignified and honourable manner.' There have been suggestions China wanted a simple joint ceremony on the eve of the handover while planning a grander one for itself. Mr Li had also not ruled out the presence of Governor Chris Patten at the ceremony by saying his participation was a matter for the British Government. Meanwhile, a Preparatory Committee sub-group on the handover celebration yesterday floated a list of programmes lasting from June 30 to July 2. According to their proposal, a variety show on the countdown to the handover would be held in the Hong Kong Stadium on June 30. A fireworks display and a concert would be held on July 1, with a car parade and another classical music concert the day after. These programmes, with 33 proposals received from local groups to celebrate the handover, will be lodged at the Urban Council tomorrow to apply for venue. The proposals did not include the one by the Democratic Party. Senior leader Dr Yeung Sum has vowed to hold a gathering on the eve of the handover. Choosing Chater Gardens as a venue, the Democrats plan to celebrate the return by announcing a manifesto calling for greater democracy. Legislator Cheung Man-kwong said: 'The sort of 'sing and dance' celebration is not meaningful enough.'