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The Hong Kong Diaries
The diaries of the last British Governor, now in paperback
In June 1992 Chris Patten went to Hong Kong as the last British governor, to try to prepare it not—as other British colonies over the decades—for independence, but for handing back in 1997 to the Chinese, from whom most of its territory had been leased 99 years previously. Over the next five years he kept this diary, which describes in detail how Hong Kong was run as a British colony and what happened as the handover approached.
The book gives unprecedented insights into negotiating with the Chinese, about how the institutions of democracy in Hong Kong were (belatedly) strengthened and how Patten sought to ensure that a strong degree of self-government would continue after 1997. Unexpectedly, his opponents included not only the Chinese themselves, but some British businessmen and civil service mandarins upset by Patten's efforts, for whom political freedom and the rule of law in Hong Kong seemed less important than keeping on the right side of Beijing.
The book concludes with an account of what has happened in Hong Kong since the handover, a powerful assessment of recent events and Patten's reflections on how to deal with China - then and now.
In June 1992 Chris Patten went to Hong Kong as the last British governor, to try to prepare it not—as other British colonies over the decades—for independence, but for handing back in 1997 to the Chinese, from whom most of its territory had been leased 99 years previously. Over the next five years he kept this diary, which describes in detail how Hong Kong was run as a British colony and what happened as the handover approached.
The book gives unprecedented insights into negotiating with the Chinese, about how the institutions of democracy in Hong Kong were (belatedly) strengthened and how Patten sought to ensure that a strong degree of self-government would continue after 1997. Unexpectedly, his opponents included not only the Chinese themselves, but some British businessmen and civil service mandarins upset by Patten's efforts, for whom political freedom and the rule of law in Hong Kong seemed less important than keeping on the right side of Beijing.
The book concludes with an account of what has happened in Hong Kong since the handover, a powerful assessment of recent events and Patten's reflections on how to deal with China - then and now.
560 pages, Paperback
First published June 21, 2022
374 people are currently reading
1397 people want to read
About the author
Chris Patten
25 books40 followersChristopher Francis Patten, Baron Patten of Barnes, CH
Graduate of Balliol College, University Oxford (1965).
Among his services, appointments, and honors, he served as Member of Parliament (MP) for Bath (1979-1992), Minister for Overseas Development at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (1986-1989), Secretary of State for the Environment (1989-1992), Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (1990-1992), Chairman of the Conservative Party (1990-1992), the last Governor of Hong Kong (1992-1997), appointed a Companion of Honour (CH) by Queen Elizabeth II (1998), Chairman of the Independent Commission on Policing for Northern Ireland (1998-1999), Chancellor of Newcastle University (1999-2009), 1999, appointed as one of the UK's two members to the European Commission (1999) and served as Commissioner for External Relations, appointed the European Union's High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (2000-2004), received an honorary LL.D. degree from the University of Bath (2003), Chancellor of the University of Oxford (2003- ), elected a Distinguished Honorary Fellow of Massey College, University of Toronto (2005), received an honorary D.S.Litt. degree from the University of Trinity College, University of Toronto (2005), Toronto, an honorary D.Litt. degree from the University of Ulster (2005), and in 2005 he was also honored with a life peerage as Baron Patten of Barnes, of Barnes in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, as a Roman Catholic he played a vital role overseeing the visit of Pope Benedict XVI's to the UK (2010), and served as Chairman of the BBC Trust (2011-2014).
Graduate of Balliol College, University Oxford (1965).
Among his services, appointments, and honors, he served as Member of Parliament (MP) for Bath (1979-1992), Minister for Overseas Development at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (1986-1989), Secretary of State for the Environment (1989-1992), Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (1990-1992), Chairman of the Conservative Party (1990-1992), the last Governor of Hong Kong (1992-1997), appointed a Companion of Honour (CH) by Queen Elizabeth II (1998), Chairman of the Independent Commission on Policing for Northern Ireland (1998-1999), Chancellor of Newcastle University (1999-2009), 1999, appointed as one of the UK's two members to the European Commission (1999) and served as Commissioner for External Relations, appointed the European Union's High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (2000-2004), received an honorary LL.D. degree from the University of Bath (2003), Chancellor of the University of Oxford (2003- ), elected a Distinguished Honorary Fellow of Massey College, University of Toronto (2005), received an honorary D.S.Litt. degree from the University of Trinity College, University of Toronto (2005), Toronto, an honorary D.Litt. degree from the University of Ulster (2005), and in 2005 he was also honored with a life peerage as Baron Patten of Barnes, of Barnes in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, as a Roman Catholic he played a vital role overseeing the visit of Pope Benedict XVI's to the UK (2010), and served as Chairman of the BBC Trust (2011-2014).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
August 2, 2022
I grew up in Hong Kong and for some reason have always remembered the name of the last Governor of Hong Kong, Chris Patten, even though I was not really interested in politics at the time. I remember driving by the Governor's house which was not far from where I lived.
So when I saw that he was releasing his Hong Kong diaries, I got really excited.
It was a very interesting read. Getting a first hand account of Hong Kong's final years as a British colony. I also really liked the personal touch, especially finding out the on one of his birthdays in HK he went to Lamma Island and at at the pigeon restaurant, where my family and I often ate as well. While I found the book really interesting, I don't think somebody who hasn't lived in HK would find it that interesting. But the final chapter I found to be particularly interesting as Chris Patten gave his thoughts on the current situation in Hong Kong.
All in all a great read. I'd recommend it to anyone who has lived in Hong Kong and anyone just interested in Colonial and British History.
So when I saw that he was releasing his Hong Kong diaries, I got really excited.
It was a very interesting read. Getting a first hand account of Hong Kong's final years as a British colony. I also really liked the personal touch, especially finding out the on one of his birthdays in HK he went to Lamma Island and at at the pigeon restaurant, where my family and I often ate as well. While I found the book really interesting, I don't think somebody who hasn't lived in HK would find it that interesting. But the final chapter I found to be particularly interesting as Chris Patten gave his thoughts on the current situation in Hong Kong.
All in all a great read. I'd recommend it to anyone who has lived in Hong Kong and anyone just interested in Colonial and British History.
July 4, 2025
I have finally finished this book after months and months and months. Thanks Chris for the copy - it was interesting to read a book about HK, which I should really know more about given my heritage.
The format of the book and its subject matter meant it was a bit slow going at times, but it is extremely quotable. Patten has a very dry, somewhat cutting sense of humour and I enjoyed the insight into those years in HK. But I found myself at times skipping through some bits.
Patten has some very on the nose comments about some people who, after the events of the book, would come to be more influential (such as Bojo). It’s hard to know how much of this is written in retrospect and whether this is really what Patten thought at the time.
I guess I should also read other perspectives about this period in HK too.
Also too much chat about people I don’t know and where their children go to school.
The format of the book and its subject matter meant it was a bit slow going at times, but it is extremely quotable. Patten has a very dry, somewhat cutting sense of humour and I enjoyed the insight into those years in HK. But I found myself at times skipping through some bits.
Patten has some very on the nose comments about some people who, after the events of the book, would come to be more influential (such as Bojo). It’s hard to know how much of this is written in retrospect and whether this is really what Patten thought at the time.
I guess I should also read other perspectives about this period in HK too.
Also too much chat about people I don’t know and where their children go to school.
September 18, 2022
Beyond doubt, Chris Patten as the last governor of Hong Kong has leave some indelible marks in the city, which has always been a key player in global economy and, lately, politics. It is within readers' expectation to get some insights from his book on the past, present and future of Hong Kong. However, this book will probably disappoint everyone who wish to learn more about the city through his writing.
This book is simply a collection of his diary during his five years as the governor of Hong Kong. They are presented in chronological, or content-wise unorganised, manner that is difficult to follow by readers, even for Hong Kong indigenous people. As a lot of key historical events intersected and overlapped in the diary, without professional-level understanding in the last five years of Hong Kong colonial reign, it is probably gruelling and fruitless to complete the book.
However, it must be stressed that this book is a valuable text for researchers on Hong Kong late colonial history. As government documents after 1993 still remained classified, his diary can provide important knowledge on the key players and their actions before the Handover. For amateurs who are only interested to have an overview on colonial Hong Kong, they probably can refer to Jan Morris's book, which was highly recommended by Chris Patten in his diaries.
This book is simply a collection of his diary during his five years as the governor of Hong Kong. They are presented in chronological, or content-wise unorganised, manner that is difficult to follow by readers, even for Hong Kong indigenous people. As a lot of key historical events intersected and overlapped in the diary, without professional-level understanding in the last five years of Hong Kong colonial reign, it is probably gruelling and fruitless to complete the book.
However, it must be stressed that this book is a valuable text for researchers on Hong Kong late colonial history. As government documents after 1993 still remained classified, his diary can provide important knowledge on the key players and their actions before the Handover. For amateurs who are only interested to have an overview on colonial Hong Kong, they probably can refer to Jan Morris's book, which was highly recommended by Chris Patten in his diaries.
June 12, 2023
There is a dilemma in publishing a diary that even as articulate as an MP at Westminster cannot run away from, namely integrity and readability. Reporting every bit of emotions and every chance encounter can put readers to sleep, or conversely invite scepticism if brevity has been preferred to comprehensiveness.
A go-getter as he is, Chris Patten has wonderfully used broad strokes, painting the portraits of wide-ranging people and doubling down with his colourful depictions. Both actions may seem diametrically opposed to the two optima in the dilemma, but nothing could offer a better view than being in his shoes through thick (CCP or FCO) and thin (family and Hong Kong).
As for the triviality of diary entries, it too has a point. In the beginning, Patten was observing and groping for his elbow room, which he would come to understand was proportional to how tight Beijing's grip was. Mired in the machinated disarray created by the provisional legislature, he complained more and joked less. The transformation and wearing out of a new governor can be read between the lines.
He was right about the ‘dice’ being cast in hoisting the independence flag, which is not a rare sight where Hongkongers meet everywhere outside China. I would like to think that he carefully addresses his disagreement with his declining yet staunch fandom. It took Emily Lau over a decade to finally acquiesce upon meeting with the Liaison Office. He should be bright enough to know that a lesson on the art of compromise will take some time, ‘as good as forever’ in this polarised age.
Perhaps Hongkongers are only wistful about the disappearing way of living and declining influence, rather than the colonial rule and its employees. Evidently, Patten is not best remembered for his contribution to democracy. In my opinion, he has a less noticeable legacy: many people have not bought into the CCP side of things because of his charisma. That alone means more than any veritable achievement to the people. If any puppet wishes to term it ‘sowing discord’, so be it. They may have a hard time pointing out where the umbilical cord is.
The diary helps me conduct different thought experiments. If David Wilson had been the last governor, maybe there would have been no need for any non-binding promises at all! Both the territory and the populace would automatically welcome a peaceful reunification with the Motherland—splendid!
If Beijing was so smart after all, Anson Chan should have been ‘elected’ as the first chief executive or John Tsang the fourth. Their liberal stance would have duped the people that there was room for making concessions. Otherwise, they might have pushed for direct elections but Hong Kong would remain in peace, provided that there were no meddling attempts. The tightening grip only means one thing: Beijing could not wait to tear up Hong Kong, or the said government is half-witted.
A go-getter as he is, Chris Patten has wonderfully used broad strokes, painting the portraits of wide-ranging people and doubling down with his colourful depictions. Both actions may seem diametrically opposed to the two optima in the dilemma, but nothing could offer a better view than being in his shoes through thick (CCP or FCO) and thin (family and Hong Kong).
As for the triviality of diary entries, it too has a point. In the beginning, Patten was observing and groping for his elbow room, which he would come to understand was proportional to how tight Beijing's grip was. Mired in the machinated disarray created by the provisional legislature, he complained more and joked less. The transformation and wearing out of a new governor can be read between the lines.
He was right about the ‘dice’ being cast in hoisting the independence flag, which is not a rare sight where Hongkongers meet everywhere outside China. I would like to think that he carefully addresses his disagreement with his declining yet staunch fandom. It took Emily Lau over a decade to finally acquiesce upon meeting with the Liaison Office. He should be bright enough to know that a lesson on the art of compromise will take some time, ‘as good as forever’ in this polarised age.
Perhaps Hongkongers are only wistful about the disappearing way of living and declining influence, rather than the colonial rule and its employees. Evidently, Patten is not best remembered for his contribution to democracy. In my opinion, he has a less noticeable legacy: many people have not bought into the CCP side of things because of his charisma. That alone means more than any veritable achievement to the people. If any puppet wishes to term it ‘sowing discord’, so be it. They may have a hard time pointing out where the umbilical cord is.
The diary helps me conduct different thought experiments. If David Wilson had been the last governor, maybe there would have been no need for any non-binding promises at all! Both the territory and the populace would automatically welcome a peaceful reunification with the Motherland—splendid!
If Beijing was so smart after all, Anson Chan should have been ‘elected’ as the first chief executive or John Tsang the fourth. Their liberal stance would have duped the people that there was room for making concessions. Otherwise, they might have pushed for direct elections but Hong Kong would remain in peace, provided that there were no meddling attempts. The tightening grip only means one thing: Beijing could not wait to tear up Hong Kong, or the said government is half-witted.
August 15, 2022
In order to fully appreciate this wonderful book one needs to be reasonably familiar with Sino-British Hong Kong politics. Indeed, knowing the place - either having visited or lived there - is also required to really enjoy it. His diaries are full of extraordinarily sharp observations, witticisms, and self-deprecating humour. It is revealing to see how he viewed other statesmen and stateswomen. It is equally revealing to see how others saw him (or how he thought others saw him). It is valuable that his diary entries include views and analyses that were very different from his (some of which he vilified). The reader can appraise them on their merits. Here are some remarkable snippets: “I am going to have to go on making the distinction between what so many rich people think is all right for Hong Kong and what they want for their own families” (p. 317); “The sins of blimps in blazers at the Hong Kong Club, now retired to Gloucestershire or Scotland with their millions, are going to rebound on us”(p.371-2); “Efforts to give Hong Kong the civilized standards we require are denounced as drags on our competitiveness and as examples of my Fabian socialism”(p.411). The book is suffused with such insights. There are many anecdotes that are at once scathing and delicious. However, at over 500 pages, it is very long. Was his a Sisyphean or Quixotic act? He surely did not see himself Cassandran, or did he? All in all, the book is thoroughly enjoyable. And it’s not all politics. Grissini, Yung Kee, a Haydn Mass, good wines … … Five stars.
July 17, 2022
A major event covered by a principled professional. Those researching the period would find telling notes about key politicians engaged or witnessing the last few years of Britain governorship over HK. Though hard it is to go through what is literally a diary, last 2 chapters summarise the core belief system.
Britain truly imported the rule of law, an engine to bolster HK fortunes to be, prior its return to China, an economic pillar of the world. A debate on the “rule of law” vs “rule by law” is central in the book.
Slowly dismantled the system was not by committees-governed Jeming and Jintao, but by control obsessed Jinping
Britain truly imported the rule of law, an engine to bolster HK fortunes to be, prior its return to China, an economic pillar of the world. A debate on the “rule of law” vs “rule by law” is central in the book.
Slowly dismantled the system was not by committees-governed Jeming and Jintao, but by control obsessed Jinping
January 3, 2023
DNF about 25% of the way in. I really wanted to know more about what the final years of British rule over Hong Kong looked like - but I don’t think this is the right book to find that out. I had forgotten how totally limiting the day-by-day diary is as a medium: I’m yet to read one that I really enjoy, largely because all the wood is lost for the trees. That is completely the case with this one - Patten has a good writing style, but what was a momentous period for each of the UK, China and Hong Kong is totally lost beneath day-to-day events that are now entirely irrelevant. Lesson learned about the format!
April 21, 2023
A really interesting collection of Chris Patten’s diaries kept during his 5 years as the last Governor of Hong Kong. Perhaps a little lacking in minute detail (more broad brush strokes as to what happened) but ultimately fascinating to read about the battles Patten was fighting during his term.
Clearly a pragmatist who wanted the best for Hong Kong and its people, he faced opposition from Hong Kong democrats who (perhaps correctly) thought he was not standing up to China enough, yet also from frankly abhorrent British apologists who wanted Patten to roll over and leave Hong Kong in the dirt in pursuit of their own business interests and the myth that doing so would lead to lucrative trade deals with China itself.
Indeed, it is this last insight that unfortunately appears to explain how China has been able to decimate Hong Kong’s rights and freedoms since 1997 - since the 80s, the world has been willing to look the other way in the interests of the “bigger picture”, to the detriment of the real people living in Hong Kong today. To me, these diaries reveal that it was the actions of the British in the 80s - through the signing of the Basic Law and Joint Declaration without any arbitration mechanism - that in effect enabled Hong Kong’s democratic demise, and that it was in spite of Patten’s best efforts that their freedoms only lasted a decade or so post-97.
Clearly a pragmatist who wanted the best for Hong Kong and its people, he faced opposition from Hong Kong democrats who (perhaps correctly) thought he was not standing up to China enough, yet also from frankly abhorrent British apologists who wanted Patten to roll over and leave Hong Kong in the dirt in pursuit of their own business interests and the myth that doing so would lead to lucrative trade deals with China itself.
Indeed, it is this last insight that unfortunately appears to explain how China has been able to decimate Hong Kong’s rights and freedoms since 1997 - since the 80s, the world has been willing to look the other way in the interests of the “bigger picture”, to the detriment of the real people living in Hong Kong today. To me, these diaries reveal that it was the actions of the British in the 80s - through the signing of the Basic Law and Joint Declaration without any arbitration mechanism - that in effect enabled Hong Kong’s democratic demise, and that it was in spite of Patten’s best efforts that their freedoms only lasted a decade or so post-97.
October 9, 2023
Hittade denna helt av slumpen. Otroligt fynd! Är vad den säger: en dagbok av den sista brittiska guvernören. Spännande resa genom 90-talet, kampen för demokrati, ekonomisk utveckling och politiska maktspel. Författaren är genuint rolig och bra på att beskriva. Stark rekommendation om man överhuvudtaget bryr sig om Hong Kong, Kina, Asien eller Brittiska imperiet.
January 27, 2025
Excellent, written with great insight (and foresight), intelligence and humour. Demonstrates Pattens humanistic approach to all matters. Highly recommended.
March 1, 2025
Great insight into doing politics. Awful warning about trusting China.
August 25, 2024
Very interesting but tough to follow at times.
December 16, 2025
Fantastic read. Patten's writing is chatty, funny, and poignant without being dramatic. He served as Hong Kong's final British governor before the colony was handed back to China in 1997. His insights into the colony's people and its quirks are entertaining, and his politician's eye for who was up or down at any particular moment are a real look into how power actually works. He also saw China for what it is and what its relationship with HK would turn out to be: dumb and destructive and self-obsessed. He's got a touch of ego but you forgive him for it because he's so damned likable and occasionally self-effacing as a writer.
August 26, 2023
這本書的英文版剛出版時，我還沒移英，經過書店時見到，曾猶豫是不是要買下。來到英國後，經常在書店看到原著，總是忍不住去翻一下，但因為它的厚重，也有很多的專有名詞，思來想去還是沒有買下。到了中文譯本面世後，曾去信香港的書店詢問從台灣直接訂過來，還是請香港的書店替我從台灣訂再運送過來英國比較便宜，書店方面回覆直接從台灣訂購，不管是書價和運費都要比較便宜，我於是便從金石堂訂過來。
其實我已經很久沒有買書的了，一來家裏空間有限，二來書看過後不知如何是好，特別是一些只會看一兩遍的消閒類書籍。（現在經常有文化飢渴症，非常想讀中文書，只好從自己的館藏裏尋找慰藉。愛看書的我，移英後無法看到中文書始終是一大遺憾)。
為甚麼覺得需要看這本書呢？因為覺得這本書有一定的歷史意義，彭督是最後一件的港督，從他的日記裏可以一窺他與中國交手的面貌，也能看到不少政治人物在整件移交事件中的表現與取態。另外是中英雙方對香港的態度，彭督在事件中的參與及對各種政治事件的看法，他個人的政治立場、個人好惡及對人對事的評價等。我個人對彭督有好感，是因為他態度親民，而且他是真的很希望能幫助香港維持本來應該有的民主、自由。
因為最近比較忙，這本書我三個多月才看完。最深的感受是，真正認識到我們的國家是落在一個自私自利、充滿謊話、言而無信、只為鞏固自己權力而不擇手段的政權。絕無大將之風、小家小器又失禮，在國際政治舞台上不斷出醜、鬧笑話。
彭督花了五年心血，只想香港繼續享受到香港引以為傲的一切，在回歸後25年，就已蕩然無存。讓人唏噓。而所有的承諾，即使有著文件的憑據，也只是歷史文件。從書中看到，他具有政治的遠見，從與中方的交涉過程中，他已預知香港的前途，讓人難過但並不意外。
記得回歸那一晚，我們一家人在電視機前觀看儀交儀式，雨下得很大。那時候，我考完A-LEVEL，但還沒知道是否能被心儀的大學和學系取錄，我的心情就像香港一樣，前途未卜。當時對政治還沒有知覺的我，並未意識到回歸後香港可能有的改變，大概只是區旗區徽而已吧。萬萬想不到我所愛的香港會變成這樣。
除此之外，我還蠻佩服彭督的魄力，他每天要處理的事情真的很多，而且還要吸收很多世界資訊，更要參與很多的社交活動，他還有時間寫日記啊。除了政治事件的記載和陳述之外，他對事對人都有強烈的感情和評價。而當他知道每次巡視社區前，政府管員都會美化街道，配合做騷後，他就拒絕預先讓人們知道他要巡視社區，務求可以看到香港的真貌；港督的保安確實不夠深嚴，但始終沒遇過甚麼問題，他出巡社區也不會動用很多的警力。相反某政治人物出巡，就得封城封區，甚至所有酒店餐館都得休巿停業，慎防暗殺綁架等，因為當權者知道，他根本不得人心。
我最記得香港某些涼茶舖，仍掛有彭督親嚐涼茶的照片；我又記得彭督愛吃香港的蛋撻。他的另一本著作《末代港督的告解》今年也有了中譯本，我看到區內的圖書館有原著，我打算先去看英文版。他接受該書中譯者訪問，我看到他比前老了很多，但他仍心繫香港，仍掛著移英港人的需要，也仍關心香港的政治前途。要不是他提出港人可申請的bno，我們現在就不能申請bno visa移英。我衷心感謝他為不想自由受到遏制的香港人提供移英的出路和選擇。
說得有點離題，這本書我肯定是會再翻看的。
其實我已經很久沒有買書的了，一來家裏空間有限，二來書看過後不知如何是好，特別是一些只會看一兩遍的消閒類書籍。（現在經常有文化飢渴症，非常想讀中文書，只好從自己的館藏裏尋找慰藉。愛看書的我，移英後無法看到中文書始終是一大遺憾)。
為甚麼覺得需要看這本書呢？因為覺得這本書有一定的歷史意義，彭督是最後一件的港督，從他的日記裏可以一窺他與中國交手的面貌，也能看到不少政治人物在整件移交事件中的表現與取態。另外是中英雙方對香港的態度，彭督在事件中的參與及對各種政治事件的看法，他個人的政治立場、個人好惡及對人對事的評價等。我個人對彭督有好感，是因為他態度親民，而且他是真的很希望能幫助香港維持本來應該有的民主、自由。
因為最近比較忙，這本書我三個多月才看完。最深的感受是，真正認識到我們的國家是落在一個自私自利、充滿謊話、言而無信、只為鞏固自己權力而不擇手段的政權。絕無大將之風、小家小器又失禮，在國際政治舞台上不斷出醜、鬧笑話。
彭督花了五年心血，只想香港繼續享受到香港引以為傲的一切，在回歸後25年，就已蕩然無存。讓人唏噓。而所有的承諾，即使有著文件的憑據，也只是歷史文件。從書中看到，他具有政治的遠見，從與中方的交涉過程中，他已預知香港的前途，讓人難過但並不意外。
記得回歸那一晚，我們一家人在電視機前觀看儀交儀式，雨下得很大。那時候，我考完A-LEVEL，但還沒知道是否能被心儀的大學和學系取錄，我的心情就像香港一樣，前途未卜。當時對政治還沒有知覺的我，並未意識到回歸後香港可能有的改變，大概只是區旗區徽而已吧。萬萬想不到我所愛的香港會變成這樣。
除此之外，我還蠻佩服彭督的魄力，他每天要處理的事情真的很多，而且還要吸收很多世界資訊，更要參與很多的社交活動，他還有時間寫日記啊。除了政治事件的記載和陳述之外，他對事對人都有強烈的感情和評價。而當他知道每次巡視社區前，政府管員都會美化街道，配合做騷後，他就拒絕預先讓人們知道他要巡視社區，務求可以看到香港的真貌；港督的保安確實不夠深嚴，但始終沒遇過甚麼問題，他出巡社區也不會動用很多的警力。相反某政治人物出巡，就得封城封區，甚至所有酒店餐館都得休巿停業，慎防暗殺綁架等，因為當權者知道，他根本不得人心。
我最記得香港某些涼茶舖，仍掛有彭督親嚐涼茶的照片；我又記得彭督愛吃香港的蛋撻。他的另一本著作《末代港督的告解》今年也有了中譯本，我看到區內的圖書館有原著，我打算先去看英文版。他接受該書中譯者訪問，我看到他比前老了很多，但他仍心繫香港，仍掛著移英港人的需要，也仍關心香港的政治前途。要不是他提出港人可申請的bno，我們現在就不能申請bno visa移英。我衷心感謝他為不想自由受到遏制的香港人提供移英的出路和選擇。
說得有點離題，這本書我肯定是會再翻看的。
July 19, 2022
If a textbook can be written on the subject of dealing with China, this is as close as it can get.
September 15, 2023
This book is an invaluable resource to gain a deeper understanding into the 'behind the scene' maneuvers taken by the two countries during this fateful period in Hong Kong. Official statements and news report on historical events are sometimes insufficient, as they often only revealed what could be verified externally, or what the players involved were willing to share as public information. Patten's diary offers a glimpse into how regional party politics in far away England, totally unrelated to Hong Kong, could have a direct effect on him, of what he was permitted to do as the governor. This personal perspective is a great supplement to the official narratives one might find in a history book.
There is also a rather large amount of triviality peppered in the entries, things like pets, parties and tennis lessons, etc. They seemed to be superfluous distractions at first, but by the end of the book, they collectively served a purpose of painting a human picture of the author, his private personality beyond his official roles.
The diary format was a little challenging to read, as multiple story lines are developed in a parallel but haphazard manner, pieces of information relevant to each story line would popped up in sort of an unexpected way. (A little bit like the 2000 film, Memento.) Thankfully, at least these entries are in chronological order. I had to get to almost halfway through the book before I managed to mentally organize the myriad of events or characters and the connections between them.
The frequent changes in personnel in the various official positions also made the reading quite frustrating. It was a chore to have to keep track of many names with their corresponding roles.
Patten was one of the most popular and memorable colonial governors of Hong Kong, and from this book, the reader would clearly see why. He served his duties with tact, with integrity and a keen sense of diplomacy. Sadly, much of his job was bound by the negotiation between China and the UK during the mid-80's, which cast the die for the future of Hong Kong, long before Patten arrived on the scene.
There is also a rather large amount of triviality peppered in the entries, things like pets, parties and tennis lessons, etc. They seemed to be superfluous distractions at first, but by the end of the book, they collectively served a purpose of painting a human picture of the author, his private personality beyond his official roles.
The diary format was a little challenging to read, as multiple story lines are developed in a parallel but haphazard manner, pieces of information relevant to each story line would popped up in sort of an unexpected way. (A little bit like the 2000 film, Memento.) Thankfully, at least these entries are in chronological order. I had to get to almost halfway through the book before I managed to mentally organize the myriad of events or characters and the connections between them.
The frequent changes in personnel in the various official positions also made the reading quite frustrating. It was a chore to have to keep track of many names with their corresponding roles.
Patten was one of the most popular and memorable colonial governors of Hong Kong, and from this book, the reader would clearly see why. He served his duties with tact, with integrity and a keen sense of diplomacy. Sadly, much of his job was bound by the negotiation between China and the UK during the mid-80's, which cast the die for the future of Hong Kong, long before Patten arrived on the scene.
June 29, 2025
“‘Excuse me, Governor. Would you claim that Britain is the oldest democracy in the world?’ he asked.
‘One could certainly claim that,’ I replied.
‘And would you also agree that China is the last great communist totalitarian state in the world?’
‘Some people might say that,’ I responded diplomatically.
‘Well could you tell me, Governor,’ he went on, ‘why your democracy is handing Hong Kong, a fine and free city, over to a communist society without ever having consulted the people who live here about what they want?”
Here was the sanest man in Hong Kong locked up in a hospital for the mentally ill. So, we are rebuilding it!”
Chris Patten is very aware of his controversial colonial position as Hong Kong’s last governor. Mingling between Beijing and London, he appeared to be on Hong Kongers’ side in the last days before the handover. Contrasting his consistent sympathies for the Hong Kong population, a glimpse of Patten’s prestigious status and influence can be taken. Idling at the Fanling summer house, frequent trips to Westminster and Toulouse, all with Hong Konger’s tax money.
Any Hong Konger with a tiny ounce of the British colonial nostalgia should read this book and face the truth: Hong Kong’s prosperity in the 1990s is a direct consequence of the co-governance of London and Beijing. Hong Kong has always been under Chinese influence, and even more so in the last days of handover. Without Chinese permission, Hong Kong couldn’t even carry out seemingly democratic reforms in the 90s. Yes, the CCP are wolves, but we should not attribute everything in favour of Westminster, who cared little for its colonial population miles away.
Chris Patten will be remembered as the most humble governor of Hong Kong, with his peculiar taste for local egg tarts and occasional speeches that predicted the future of Hong Kong. Becoming one of the most powerful man in Hong Kong, a governor of Britain’s last colonies, had always been a plan D in his mind, more so after his defeat in Bath elections. He’s never been a Hong Konger, let alone a national icon. But he delivered the handover transition smoothly, fortunately so.
‘One could certainly claim that,’ I replied.
‘And would you also agree that China is the last great communist totalitarian state in the world?’
‘Some people might say that,’ I responded diplomatically.
‘Well could you tell me, Governor,’ he went on, ‘why your democracy is handing Hong Kong, a fine and free city, over to a communist society without ever having consulted the people who live here about what they want?”
Here was the sanest man in Hong Kong locked up in a hospital for the mentally ill. So, we are rebuilding it!”
Chris Patten is very aware of his controversial colonial position as Hong Kong’s last governor. Mingling between Beijing and London, he appeared to be on Hong Kongers’ side in the last days before the handover. Contrasting his consistent sympathies for the Hong Kong population, a glimpse of Patten’s prestigious status and influence can be taken. Idling at the Fanling summer house, frequent trips to Westminster and Toulouse, all with Hong Konger’s tax money.
Any Hong Konger with a tiny ounce of the British colonial nostalgia should read this book and face the truth: Hong Kong’s prosperity in the 1990s is a direct consequence of the co-governance of London and Beijing. Hong Kong has always been under Chinese influence, and even more so in the last days of handover. Without Chinese permission, Hong Kong couldn’t even carry out seemingly democratic reforms in the 90s. Yes, the CCP are wolves, but we should not attribute everything in favour of Westminster, who cared little for its colonial population miles away.
Chris Patten will be remembered as the most humble governor of Hong Kong, with his peculiar taste for local egg tarts and occasional speeches that predicted the future of Hong Kong. Becoming one of the most powerful man in Hong Kong, a governor of Britain’s last colonies, had always been a plan D in his mind, more so after his defeat in Bath elections. He’s never been a Hong Konger, let alone a national icon. But he delivered the handover transition smoothly, fortunately so.
August 31, 2023
Having lived and worked in Hong Kong for over 10 years total in the 1970's and the late 80's / early 90's, and flown into the city for the 1997 handover, this was a book I just had to read. An old friend of mine was also Patten's spokesman for much of his governorship.
I am largely a fan of Patten (although I've always been bemused how such an intelligent, logical and caring man can believe in god, and be a practicing member of the Catholic church...). His Hong Kong diaries nudged me slightly in a negative direction, although there is much about hime that I continue to admire.
My sense from his diaries is that he allowed his understandably innate political thinking to drive his actions as governor to too large an extent. This led him, in my view, to focus on unachievable missions rather than tackle some of the issues that desperately needed addressing and that still cloud HK's well-being today. In particular, his failure to push through tough social order laws that would have quite possibly avoided some of the turmoil and Beijing interference of recent years. And also, the despicable business monopoly over land use and therefore property costs for the middle and lower class people in the (then) colony. He was always willing to take on the mainland Chinese with whom the negotiations were taking place, but for some reason never dared take on the land-rich businesses that have always profiteered on the backs of the Hong Kong people (and still do today).
The diaries are fascinating, and particularly enlightening in Patten's assessments of the good and the bad Hong Kong civil servants and politicians of his term of office.
I am largely a fan of Patten (although I've always been bemused how such an intelligent, logical and caring man can believe in god, and be a practicing member of the Catholic church...). His Hong Kong diaries nudged me slightly in a negative direction, although there is much about hime that I continue to admire.
My sense from his diaries is that he allowed his understandably innate political thinking to drive his actions as governor to too large an extent. This led him, in my view, to focus on unachievable missions rather than tackle some of the issues that desperately needed addressing and that still cloud HK's well-being today. In particular, his failure to push through tough social order laws that would have quite possibly avoided some of the turmoil and Beijing interference of recent years. And also, the despicable business monopoly over land use and therefore property costs for the middle and lower class people in the (then) colony. He was always willing to take on the mainland Chinese with whom the negotiations were taking place, but for some reason never dared take on the land-rich businesses that have always profiteered on the backs of the Hong Kong people (and still do today).
The diaries are fascinating, and particularly enlightening in Patten's assessments of the good and the bad Hong Kong civil servants and politicians of his term of office.
June 5, 2025
Evidently, Chris Patten is a man of integrity and a conscientious governor of Hong Kong. When evaluated against the collective of Chief Executives of the SAR, Patten's leadership is unquestionably superior. The present volume aims to elucidate several salient points regarding this matter.
Firstly, a preponderance of evidence suggests that Anson Chan is the official whose name is mentioned most frequently.
Secondly, Victor Fung, a pivotal figure in the pro-establishment "United Front" and "opposition," served as Chris's policy advisor. Fung continues to serve as a policy advisor to chief executives of the SAR, a role that carries significant political weight and offers insights into the intricacies of Hong Kong's political landscape.
Thirdly, the national identification of Hong Kong officials and their families with multiple passports has not yet been exposed to the CCP. Chris has legally maintained the confidentiality of this information, despite frequently labeling officials as "traitors." He has safeguarded the entire government secret.
Fourthly, despite his awareness of the deteriorating housing issues in the 1990s and beyond, Chris did not confront the real estate oligarchy, the so-called tycoons, in the face of the CCP. However, as a responsible governor, he did not abandon the public housing policy.
Fifthly, the relationship between Jimmy Lai and Chris is characterized by discord.
In summation, Chris's book and his viewpoint are a precise reflection of the Hong Kong ruling class of today. Consequently, this book will not become outdated as long as the Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China continues.
Firstly, a preponderance of evidence suggests that Anson Chan is the official whose name is mentioned most frequently.
Secondly, Victor Fung, a pivotal figure in the pro-establishment "United Front" and "opposition," served as Chris's policy advisor. Fung continues to serve as a policy advisor to chief executives of the SAR, a role that carries significant political weight and offers insights into the intricacies of Hong Kong's political landscape.
Thirdly, the national identification of Hong Kong officials and their families with multiple passports has not yet been exposed to the CCP. Chris has legally maintained the confidentiality of this information, despite frequently labeling officials as "traitors." He has safeguarded the entire government secret.
Fourthly, despite his awareness of the deteriorating housing issues in the 1990s and beyond, Chris did not confront the real estate oligarchy, the so-called tycoons, in the face of the CCP. However, as a responsible governor, he did not abandon the public housing policy.
Fifthly, the relationship between Jimmy Lai and Chris is characterized by discord.
In summation, Chris's book and his viewpoint are a precise reflection of the Hong Kong ruling class of today. Consequently, this book will not become outdated as long as the Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China continues.
July 4, 2025
I DNF’ed this book much to my dismay. Honestly I don’t think I’ve ever struggled so much with a book before!
Firstly, I’ll cover the good points. Patten does indeed have a good sense of humour. This was seen throughout which helped to relieve the somewhat painful ramblings of the politics. The small reprieves are probably primarily what helped me get so far in the book, but alas it wasn’t enough.
To sum how this is written up, it is the ramblings of an aging British politician on the politics of what seems to be a never ending stalemate between Britain and China without as much regard for Hong Kong. It is literally written, and possibly unedited, as a diary- we all know how diaries can waffle on about the most ridiculous things.
I am sorry to be so critical of this book, but it was extremely hard to follow with little to no explanations of the groups and issues that mattered. No I don’t want to know who Jacob Rees-Moggs was as a young man. I’d much prefer to know more of who Anson Chang was and what issues did they exactly cover- it all just needed more explanation. For someone more primed in the knowledge of the 1992-1997 period in Hong Kong and with an insider reserve of political knowledge, this may be a somewhat interesting and enjoyable book. For someone like me, who is rather critical and grumpy with current politicians and is rather fed up with politics in general, this is not a book to read. I thought this would be a history book- to some extent it is, but pretty much politics based which was not wanted.
Sadly I will probably never read something by Chris Patten again and I am happy to let this book fade into the past.
Firstly, I’ll cover the good points. Patten does indeed have a good sense of humour. This was seen throughout which helped to relieve the somewhat painful ramblings of the politics. The small reprieves are probably primarily what helped me get so far in the book, but alas it wasn’t enough.
To sum how this is written up, it is the ramblings of an aging British politician on the politics of what seems to be a never ending stalemate between Britain and China without as much regard for Hong Kong. It is literally written, and possibly unedited, as a diary- we all know how diaries can waffle on about the most ridiculous things.
I am sorry to be so critical of this book, but it was extremely hard to follow with little to no explanations of the groups and issues that mattered. No I don’t want to know who Jacob Rees-Moggs was as a young man. I’d much prefer to know more of who Anson Chang was and what issues did they exactly cover- it all just needed more explanation. For someone more primed in the knowledge of the 1992-1997 period in Hong Kong and with an insider reserve of political knowledge, this may be a somewhat interesting and enjoyable book. For someone like me, who is rather critical and grumpy with current politicians and is rather fed up with politics in general, this is not a book to read. I thought this would be a history book- to some extent it is, but pretty much politics based which was not wanted.
Sadly I will probably never read something by Chris Patten again and I am happy to let this book fade into the past.
January 10, 2025
A satisfactory read. Patten’s autobiography of his time as the last governor of Hong Kong from 1992-1997 provides a somewhat interesting insight into the firsthand experience of being a governor of the most important and influential cities in Asia.
Whilst it does have some interesting details about the people, culture, and history of Hong Kong. It is extremely shallow and dry. It didn’t provide enough depth and linkage to understand the impact and influence of the British imperial effect on Hong Kong during its reign. Similarly, the Chinese control of the city provides some insight, but again, fails to provide further insight, context, and implications.
Most of book focused on the life of Patten and his interactions with his family, office, legislative and executive branches of Hong Kong, and foreign leaders; most of which I found too vague and nonsensical (as most was simply involving diplomatic dialogue, bargaining, and why we need to maintain pressure on the PRC; something that I spend too much time studying within International Relations, and found a little too inflammatory).
Overall, whilst it’s not a terrible book, it didn’t have the intended effect that I had hoped for: Understanding Hong Kong-British-Chinese relations and the importance of Hong Kong. I would only recommend this book to anyone interested in gaining a better insight into the author himself, and how he viewed different world leaders and figures.
Whilst it does have some interesting details about the people, culture, and history of Hong Kong. It is extremely shallow and dry. It didn’t provide enough depth and linkage to understand the impact and influence of the British imperial effect on Hong Kong during its reign. Similarly, the Chinese control of the city provides some insight, but again, fails to provide further insight, context, and implications.
Most of book focused on the life of Patten and his interactions with his family, office, legislative and executive branches of Hong Kong, and foreign leaders; most of which I found too vague and nonsensical (as most was simply involving diplomatic dialogue, bargaining, and why we need to maintain pressure on the PRC; something that I spend too much time studying within International Relations, and found a little too inflammatory).
Overall, whilst it’s not a terrible book, it didn’t have the intended effect that I had hoped for: Understanding Hong Kong-British-Chinese relations and the importance of Hong Kong. I would only recommend this book to anyone interested in gaining a better insight into the author himself, and how he viewed different world leaders and figures.
February 19, 2025
«Who can know what comes next? Will the story of the 21st century be one in which freedom and liberal values are snuffed out around the planet one by one as they have been in Hong Kong? Is Hong Kong and what it has always stood for now doomed? I refuse to accept this, refuse to accept that the sort of world I have taken for granted is doomed to disappear long before my grandchildren are my age. I learned more about the relationship between economic and political freedom in Hong Kong than I’ve ever learned from any books, and more about the importance of the rule of law. Maybe I learned too about the extent to which very often some people get the system of governance they deserve. But I’m not sure that this last point was entirely true in Hong Kong, certainly not for the majority. They deserved better than we bequathed them, and I cannot give up hope that they will get a better deal in due course through their own courage, despite these recent depressing and tawdry events.» - Chris Patten, The Hong Kong Diaries, The Destruction of Hong Kong, p. 493.
March 17, 2023
An interesting look into Colonial and British History through the eyes of our last Governor. Chris Patten’s honest and at times humorous diaries entries show in great detail the challenges of dealing with China and indeed the British government at time of Britain handing over its last great colony. In the final chapter he shares his thoughts on what has happened to Hong Kong since power was transferred, including the notorious umbrella riots of 2012, the extradition bill of 2019 and the national security law introduction of 2020, which all but concluded Hong Kong’s autonomy as a fully fledged democracy.
March 24, 2024
It's a day by day diary of the last British governor of Hong Kong.
I thought it to be a good book overall, however if you want to fully enjoy it you need to have good political knowledge or specifically the way politics work within Hong Kong. If you don't, a lot of the content will seem quite boring, as there's a lot of descriptions of how legislative votes and meetings go on.
Also, as this is a diary, there is no narrative to it, just day to day events. My favourite part was the last chapter where the author starts to expose some of his own personal feelings and opinions regarding the situation in Hong Kong.
I thought it to be a good book overall, however if you want to fully enjoy it you need to have good political knowledge or specifically the way politics work within Hong Kong. If you don't, a lot of the content will seem quite boring, as there's a lot of descriptions of how legislative votes and meetings go on.
Also, as this is a diary, there is no narrative to it, just day to day events. My favourite part was the last chapter where the author starts to expose some of his own personal feelings and opinions regarding the situation in Hong Kong.
March 30, 2024
I picked this book up in the hopes of learning more about the end of British rule in Hong Kong and was a little disappointed in what I received. While there are many interesting details in the book, the day by day diary format makes it hard to follow along at times and can be very tedious to get through. I hard hoped the book would be organized in themes and topic rather than simply chronological. That said it was still a decent read and I learned quite a bit and the collection of photographs was really good. I was interested to read about Patten’s tense relationship with Lee Kuan Yew and found the final diary entry on the day of the handover to be the best part of the whole book.
September 27, 2025
Fascinating account of Chris Patten’s time in Hong Kong - with a searing indictment at the end of what happened afterwards.
It being a diary brings both immediacy of perspective and some lovely trivial domestic details around dogs, meals etc while still giving a clear view of what was happening at a crucial time for not just Hong Kong but the wider world.
Patten is a moderate Tory with a liberal attitude and this does make it an easier read for anyone who sees the names “Boris” and “Jacob” and shudders!
A great intro to the region for anyone unfamiliar and an object lesson in not trusting the blatantly untrustworthy.
It being a diary brings both immediacy of perspective and some lovely trivial domestic details around dogs, meals etc while still giving a clear view of what was happening at a crucial time for not just Hong Kong but the wider world.
Patten is a moderate Tory with a liberal attitude and this does make it an easier read for anyone who sees the names “Boris” and “Jacob” and shudders!
A great intro to the region for anyone unfamiliar and an object lesson in not trusting the blatantly untrustworthy.
March 18, 2024
Those of us who are old enough will remember the historical handover of Hong Kong from British control back to that of China and wondered what would become of this territory in the years after and whether the agreement that nothing was to change for 50 years would be actually be upheld.
I admit though, that it is difficult to read Chris Patten’s diary of his time as Hong Kong’s last British governor given what has now occurred in Hong Kong and not see that the noose was already being put on during his time overseeing the last years of British control.
I admit though, that it is difficult to read Chris Patten’s diary of his time as Hong Kong’s last British governor given what has now occurred in Hong Kong and not see that the noose was already being put on during his time overseeing the last years of British control.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 17, 2023
這本日記記錄了身為末代港督的彭定康在香港與中國交手的詳細狀況。中國共產黨的思維方式與其對世界認知的局限，與北韓一樣，長年受到僵固的意識型態的嚴重局限，即使是鄧小平、朱鎔基那類「改革派」也不例外。其強硬的「底線」不必指望有任何「開明」的修正，在表面靈活陰柔的統戰煙幕後，是中國下層官僚對帝皇旨意的遠東宮廷式去人性化的執行。彭定康的經歷顯示，英國的實力無法與美國相比，中國只有在對方強大軍事的實力之下才會低頭，不會有任何所謂的理性討論。昔日「改革開放」的「好日子」如此，後來個人獨裁的今日猶是。在今天看來，大家就會明白這個國家在執迷的自我中心絕對權力意識黑洞中，無法與世界接軌的基本原因。
——《香港日記》
Readmoo讀墨電子書
余英時先生在《余英時回憶錄》中憶述，他在一九五○年逃亡至香港，在羅湖過關時有一種極為奇異的經驗：「我突然覺得頭上一鬆，整個人好像處於一種逍遙自在的狀態中。」感受壓迫或自由的空氣，會在潛意識影響人的觀感，以奇妙而顯著的方式改變人對世界的感受。
——《香港日記》
Readmoo讀墨電子書
——《香港日記》
Readmoo讀墨電子書
余英時先生在《余英時回憶錄》中憶述，他在一九五○年逃亡至香港，在羅湖過關時有一種極為奇異的經驗：「我突然覺得頭上一鬆，整個人好像處於一種逍遙自在的狀態中。」感受壓迫或自由的空氣，會在潛意識影響人的觀感，以奇妙而顯著的方式改變人對世界的感受。
——《香港日記》
Readmoo讀墨電子書
October 25, 2023
Nostalgia
I remembered that I finished my study in 1991 and began my career as an architect. I was having the best days of my life in Hong Kong when Patten was governor. In fact the few years before 1997 was undoubtedly the golden age of Hong Kong. This book reminds me of all the people and events which ultimately cast the fate of us.
I remembered that I finished my study in 1991 and began my career as an architect. I was having the best days of my life in Hong Kong when Patten was governor. In fact the few years before 1997 was undoubtedly the golden age of Hong Kong. This book reminds me of all the people and events which ultimately cast the fate of us.
April 24, 2024
Chris Patten was the last British Governor of Hong Kong before handover to the Chinese in 1997.
I enjoyed this partly because my best friend lives in Hong Kong and I have visited a number of times and know the city a little. It also piqued my interest around the nature of how government and the civil service works.
I enjoyed this partly because my best friend lives in Hong Kong and I have visited a number of times and know the city a little. It also piqued my interest around the nature of how government and the civil service works.
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