-4-
introduction of direct
elections in 1988.
This was not
accurately presented in the report, however, and the delegation
is gravely concerned by the manner in which the Hong Kong
administration has thus misrepresented the views of Hong Kong
people.
professionals
The distressing prospect of an ever weakening administration is
causing tens of thousands of
to leave the
terrority. Statistics obtained from foreign consulates and
commissions in Hong Kong show that large numbers of
professionals and their families have emigrated and many more
are planning to do the same. Emigration of Hong Kong people to
Canada, for example, rose 86% in 1986, while in the first nine
months of 1987, the growth rate jumped to 149% year-on-year.
In the case of Australia, another popular destination for Hong
Kong emigrants, visa applications increased by 78% in 1985-1986
and 67.2% in 1986-1987.
Unless the "brain drain" is arrested, it will be impossible for
Hong Kong to continue functioning as an international financial
and trade centre.
The confidence crisis is
is also reflected in the most recent
public opinion survey which shows a dramatic shift
shift of views
regarding the viability of the 1984 Sino-British Joint
Declaration. The survey, carried out in July 1987, shows that
72% of Hong Kong people no longer have confidence in the Joint