In 1997 the British state relinquished control of Hong Kong. From that point an established prosperous community was faced with reordering its sense of itself and its links with the wider world around the authority of Beijing. This book traces the political relationship between Hong Kong and China, and sketches a number of possible future scenarios ranging from successful mutual understanding, through to breakdown and the imposition of rule from Beijing.Having lived and worked in East Asia, Peter Preston brings a sympathetic outsiders eye to the problems of Hong Kong and Beijing relations. He pursues four main issues including the manner of embedding a new political settlement, the business of governing the territory, the issue of democracy, and the likely future of the extant form of life.

Students and scholars specialising in comparative politics, and international relations of East Asia will find this book to be of interest. It will also be of use to those addressing political conflict in that part of the world.