LONDON: Former Hong Kong governor Chris Patten says the city, which used to be under British colonial rule, remains one of the freest places in Asia - 12 years after its return to the motherland.

Speaking to China Daily in London, Patten, who was the last Hong Kong governor until 1997, said the special administrative region remains successful, despite international concerns at the time of the transfer.

"It still has a unique quality, combining the rule of law with its Chineseness. It is still a terrific success story and it has a real sense of citizenship and a real attachment to civil values," he said. "It remains one of the freest places in Asia. Where would I prefer to live? Hong Kong or Singapore? The answer would be Hong Kong. No argument."