ANNEX
22
Hong Kong's External Commercial Relations
(excluding Hong Kong/UK Trade)
It is agreed that Hong Kong's external commercial relations
should be conducted on the basis of the following understanding:
1. The constitutional position is that HMG is responsible for the conduct of Hong Kong's external relations (including
commercial relations): it being understood that in keeping
with its obligations under the United Nations Charter this res-
ponsibility is exercised for the purpose of protecting the best
interests of the people of Hong Kong and with full regard to the Hong Kong Government's views as to where those best interests
lie.
2. The Hong Kong Government will accordingly keep HMG informed
from the earliest practicable stage of developments in the field
of its external commercial relations.
3. Where HMG have not indicated that considerations of British
international commercial policy are involved the Hong Kong Government
is responsible for determining the course of and for the conduct of Hong Kong's external commercial relations with such assistance
as it may be agreed can be furnished by HMG or HMG's overseas
representatives. The venue of such negotiations shall be a
matter for decision between the Hong Kong Government and any
third party.
4. Where HMG have indicated that considerations of British
international commercial policy are involved the Hong Kong Government
may nevertheless continue in full consultation and association
with HMG., to exercise a similar responsibility acting withing
the framework of such policies as may be agreed with HMG and
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/in conformity