MOTION FOR THE EASTER ADJOURNMENT
HONG KONG
SPEAKING NOTE
FUTURE OF HONG KONG
1.
Her Majesty's Government are committed to fulfilling their
responsibilities to Hong Kong and its people. Both Britain and
China, to say nothing of the people of Hong Kong itself, have a
strong interest in maintaining confidence and stability in the
Territory. The excellent state of relations between our two
countries and between China and Hong Kong does much to ensure this.
THE SECRETARY OF STATE'S VISIT
2. The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
visited Hong Kong from 29 March to 1 April. His programme included
talks with the Governor and senior officials, and visits to the
Castle Peak 'B' Power Station site, public housing schemes and
the Garrison and Police. The visit went extremely well and helped
reassure the people of Hong Kong of Britain's commitment to them.
STANDING COMMITTE ON PRESSURE GROUPS (SCOPG)
3. This is an interdepartmental committee which was set up 3 years
ago in Hong Kong to keep in touch with the views of a wide range of
people on Hong Kong Government policies. The Standing Committee
is an advisory body and has no executive functions.
PUBLIC ORDER ORDINANCE
4.
Amendments to this Ordinance were passed by the Legislative
Council in Hong Kong last December, following a review of certain
provisions relating to public meetings and processions. It is
essential in a small and congested place like Hong Kong to maintain
control over public gatherings while preserving people's right of
assembly.
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