C
9.
While we fully support the concept that the scheme
should provide enhanced trading opportunities for the least
developed of the developing countries we do not believe
this end should be sought by actions which may be harmful
to the trading interests of more competitive developing
countries and which may, in addition, harm the trading
interests of Hong Kong to the benefit of certain other
more competitive developing countries. We consider that
the existing 'butoir' arrangements already ensure that
these more competitive developing countries, including
Hong Kong, do not obtain a disproportionate share of the
benefits of the Scheme.
3.
10.
In support of this contention we invite attention
to the fact that Hong Kong reached the butoir for 24
categories in 1972 and for 22 categories in 1973. Of these,
21 categories are common to both years, and of the 21, 17
were sensitive categories. In no category in which Hong Kong
reached the butoir, however, was the tariff quota as a whole.
filled. It is clear, therefore, that Hong Kong did not
prevent other beneficiaries from securing benefits and it
is obvious that the present butoir system is achieving its
purpose.
11. Any modification to the Community's Scheme to reduce
the opportunities for the more competitive beneficiaries
would, as far as Hong Kong is concerned:
(a) reduce the compensation secured for Hong Kong
in the accession negotiations:
./(b)