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A

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B-467

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192

Attached

CONFIDENTIAL COVERING SECRET

Parliamentary Unit

613

HONG KONG : USE OF BANNED OR CARCINOGENIC CHEMICALS IN INDUSTRY

PQS:

1.

In his replies to 3 written Questions from Mr Robert Parry MP on 24 February on the use of dangerous substances in industry in Hong Kong, the Lord Privy Seal undertook to provide detailed answers as soon as possible. We have now received more information from Hong Kong.

2. This concentrates on the electronics industry, and does not give a very clear picture of the way these considerations apply to Hong Kong industry as a whole: Mr Parry's second and third Questions apply to all industry rather than just the electronics industry. However, we have enough information to answer them. I submit draft replies. The information has been cleared with the UK Health and Safety Executive.

3. The Questions arose in connection with the case of Ms Vertucci which has attracted Parliamentary interest and which is summarised in my submission of 2 March. It is clear from the information provided by the Hong Kong Government that they are well aware of the health hazards posed by the electronics industry, and very willing to investigate any evidence of the use of harmful chemicals in it. No such evidence has up to now been presented.

4.

The Asia Monitor Centre, with which Ms Vertucci is associated, have on two occasions contacted the Labour Department to talk about the health of workers in the electronics industry, but have not submitted any written report or recommendations on the subject.

5. The replies exceed 50 words. This is necessary because of the technical nature of the Questions.

ناب

R D Clift

4 March 1982

Hong Kong and General Department

HKK 345/2

RSCOVLO NA VOWADZY NO.

MAP 1849

DESK OFSO

CONFIDENTIAL COVERING SECRET

INC

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NO

10/3

Af 10

13

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