The relations between Britain and China over Hong Kong 's political future has cast a pall over the colony 's financial markets . Governor Lee has called elections in 1994 and 1995 to allow for greater democracy for the people and is supported by the people . Mr Patten has said, however, that what he finally proposes has to be 'acceptable to the people of Hong Kong'. Patten has repeatedly indicated a go - it - alone possibility marking a change in British policy toward Hong Kong and China , which had a priority on reaching agreement with Britain . China claims that financing proposals from the Hong Kong government would put a heavy financial burden on the post-1997 community . China could sacrifice the economic well - being of its people in response to a perceived threat to its sovereignty .
The relations between Britain and China over Hong Kong 's political future has cast a pall over the colony 's financial markets . Governor Lee has called elections in 1994 and 1995 to allow for greater democracy for the people and is supported by the people . Patten has repeatedly indicated a go - it - alone possibility marking a change in British policy toward Hong Kong and China , which had a priority on reaching agreement with Britain . China claims that financing proposals from the Hong Kong government would put a heavy financial burden on the post-1997 community . China could sacrifice the economic well - being of its people in response to a perceived threat to its sovereignty .