IN a world that is generally plagued by recession and overwhelming economic and political hardship and torment, the Chinese mainland's financial achievements are nothing short of spectacular. As the Peoples' Republic emerges as the world's newest and most dynamic economic power, coupled by a brilliant and enlightened leadership and centuries of culture and diplomacy as the manifestation of its expertise, it is fervently hoped that this exceptional legacy shall be reflected in the government's dealings with Hongkong. We call upon our friends and compatriots in Beijing, to refrain from using such terminology or language that detracts from the intrinsic virtue and sense of morality that is the natural character of the Chinese people, and to conduct negotiations with the British with the incomparable honour and civilised constraint that they are renowned for. To do so would further demonstrate the nation's maturity. We request that China's Prime Minister, Mr Li Peng and the head of the Hongkong and Macau Affairs Office, Mr Lu Ping, grant Governor Chris Patten, the benefit of the doubt and permit him to articulate his sincerity and to further expand upon his electionproposal, and pledge to lend direction to the territory's march towards wealth and peace. JONATHAN GRAY League of China Patriots Lamma
