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Councillor pointed out that British firms were using HK as an outpost to establish important trading relations in Asia, and the importance of HK's role on the international political stage also produced benefits for UK. In 1978, the then Chief Secretary, Sir Denys Roberts wrote an article stressing the mutual benefit
and reciprocity between HK and the UK, He stated the need to
ensure that the British fully understood "HK's great value to
the UK. HK is the best market for British products and a firm
base for British merchants in Asia.'
It is regretted that the CAA has taken a discriminatory
decision purely on grounds to protect Eritish airlines, and
without considering the enormous benefits which she obtained
through air transport, trade, economics and political matters. Therefore, it is not surprising that the people of HK responded to and criticised the issue so strongly.
Businessmen also pointed out that the discrimination
against CPA would help the growth of protectionism in the UK.
If this precedent was set, other caces fellow. Their worry was justifiable.
The public hoped that the British Authorities would
bear in mind the importance of reciprocity and right this wrong
decision regarding the air route.