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d)
e)
outpace those of Guangdong.
Hong Kong also now has de facto
autonomy in international trade agreements and de facto but not
separate representation in international organisations ie the
General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), which would need
examination. Hong Kong also features significantly in the
United Kingdom's international air service agreements.
accommodation would be necessary on this.
An
Defence: The role of the British Garrison in a transitional
period would create major problems. It would be necessary to
decide whether British troops should remain in the long-term.
A close relationship with China in this area would raise
serious difficulties on the ground and would have to be
reconciled with our other international commitments. The
implications for the future of the Brigade of Gurkhas would
also have to be considered.
Legal: The nature of the legal problems for HMG would depend
on the extend of participation by Britain in the administration
of the Territory under the new system. The range of problems
include:
i) The legacy of the allegedly 'unequal'.Treaties on which
present British rule rests; how can these be replaced
without a new treaty?
ii) The reconciliation
of continuing British administration
with a recognition of ultimate Chinese sovereignty.
iii) The provision of a legal basis for a British contribution
to a new system of government
for example, a special zone
within the Chinese state but under local control;
iv) Legal problems during a transitional period
v) Legal problems of citizenship (see (a)).
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