C.S. 84
For discussion
RESTRICTED
RECEIVE December 1974
KUCISTRY No.52)
10 DEC1974
MEMORANDUM FOR EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
XCR(74)211 Copy No
ROYAL VISIT FIREWORK DISPLAY
since 1967.
The discharge of fireworks has been banned in Hong Kong
2
This ban was originally imposed for security reasons, it has been maintained partly because of them and partly because it has reduced fire hazards and the considerable number of personal injuries caused by the discharge of fireworks in the past.
3
It has been suggested that the ban might be relaxed in order that a first class display of fireworks can be staged as part of the celebrations connected with the Royal Visit in May 1975.
4
5
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
The following questions arise:
Is it desirable to have such a display at all?
Should the display be regarded as unique, or should other firework displays be permitted in the future?
If other firework displays are to be allowed in the future, should these be limited to displays arranged by the Government?
Has the time come to remove the ban and to return to the position before 1967 when fireworks were freely available under a licensing system?
The letting off of fire crackers has traditionally been very popular in Hong Kong, as a means of celebrating a special or auspicious occasion and a firework display seems to be a particularly appropriate way of welcoming the Queen.
6
If such a display is to be given, it must be of first class quality and therefore expensive (an estimate of $180, 000-$240,000 for a 30-45 minute show has been obtained from the Crown Agents in London). There is some danger that in a time of economic depression, there would be criticism of the expenditure involved. However, it is thought that this is such an unusual occasion that criticism would be muted.
RESTRICTED
ра
BD
10/12
(29)