The Hong Kong Diaries

The diaries of the last British Governor of Hong Kong, published on the 25th anniversary of the handover, provide unprecedented insights into how Hong Kong was run as a British colony and the negotiations leading up to the handover. Chris Patten's book highlights the strengthening of democratic institutions and his efforts to ensure self-government would continue after 1997. However, his opponents included British businessmen and civil service mandarins who prioritized keeping on the right side of Beijing. The book concludes with an account of Hong Kong's past and present, assessing recent events and Patten's reflections on dealing with China.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 560 pages
Publication date: 29 February 2024
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

In June 1992, Chris Patten embarked on his role as the final British governor of Hong Kong, with a unique mission to prepare the territory for a historic handover back to the Chinese government, marking the end of British colonial rule after 99 years. Over the next five years, Patten diligently documented his experiences and observations in a personal diary, providing a detailed account of how Hong Kong functioned as a British colony. The book offers unprecedented insights into the negotiations between Patten and the Chinese authorities, shedding light on the strengthening of democratic institutions in Hong Kong and the efforts made to ensure a strong degree of self-government would persist after 1997.

However, Patten's journey was not without its challenges. Unexpectedly, his opponents included not only the Chinese themselves but also some British businessmen and civil service mandarins who were displeased with his policies. These individuals prioritized political freedom and the rule of law in Hong Kong over maintaining close ties with Beijing, viewing them as threats to their interests.

The book concludes with an account of the events that have transpired in Hong Kong since the handover, offering a powerful assessment of recent developments and Patten's reflections on dealing with China both during his tenure as governor and in the present day. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding the complex history and dynamics of Hong Kong's transition from British to Chinese rule.

Weight: 410g
Dimension: 198 x 130 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780141999708