Unless you've been living under a rock during much of the 90s, Chris Patten needs no introduction. From 1992 to Hong Kong’s handover in 1997, he was the city’s last Governor. Now, after retiring from his political duties in the UK, he’s just published a last dispatch of sorts titled “Not Quite The Diplomat.” Shortly before his visits to Shanghai and Hong Kong, Scott Murphy talked to him about that book and more.
Hong Kong is one of the most exciting places in the world. It’s a city which has a real buzz. It brings together—in my view—the best of Asia—and many of the best qualities of the rest of the world. It’s done so in an incredibly lively—but sometimes chaotic but always exciting way.
I recall all too many great restaurants there. I recall for example, the Yung Kee in Lan Kwai Fong where I took Chancellor Kohl—the German leader—for a memorable meal in which he worked his way steadily through several courses.
I remember of course my enthusiasm for egg tarts. I’m going to open a new branch of my favorite baker in a few days time.
My time in Hong Kong was time very well spent. First of all, Hong Kong was incredibly stable when I was there. That wasn’t always predictable. Hong Kong had a very successful five years. Secondly, I think I helped to encourage what was happening already, which was a development of a sense of citizenship in Hong Kong. I think that’s one of the things that makes Hong Kong such a civilized and free society.
Hong Kong has always been a very special place for me and I think that my family and I had the five happiest years of our lives there.