(15)
Kr. Parry asked the Lord Frivy Seal whether he considers thet the inability of the Hong Kong Government to issue post-1997 leases in the New Territories is causing a crisis in invectors' confidence; and if Her Kajesty's Government have any plans to remedy
the situation.
The Clown wricoles nost uncomfortably, blushes deeply, removes his foot from his mouth and stammers:
Mr. Blaker: Investment decisions are influenced by very fletons, but it is clear that most investors take a positive view of the
prospects in Hong Kong.
nsard July 26 1979 Cols. 402/3)
The Clown pops his foot back in his mouth and cartwheels out looking for Mrs. Thatcher for reassurances that these nasty men won't ask him any more questions
that that he cannot answer cake him appear foolish in public. Mr. Stan Newens M.P. stops him at the door for one last question:
Mr. Newens asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he plans to amend x article XXVI(6) of the Royal Instructions to the governor of
Hong Kong.
Mr. Blaker. No.
(Hansard: 26 July 1979 Cols. 401/2).
The article mentioned is the one that prevents the Governor of Hong Kong passing any local legislation " which shall appear inconsistent with
obligations imposed on Us by Treaty."
this
That is to say: despite the very busy tosing-andfroing of top British politicians
to Peking, long conversations with Mao, Zhou, Deng etc., despite full
ambassadorial relations, despite MacLehoseŝs visit to Deng year, the
revision or extension of the Treaty has not even been discussed. There are
no plans to issue post-1997 leases in the NT and the Minister at the Foreign Office with special responsibilty for Hong Kong ( his birthplace ) dodged
a simple question and failed to use a perfect opportunity to announce the
solution of the Lease Problem,
The implication is very strong, The Lease Problem cannot be solved.
>= 1