RESTRICTED
strong. As regards emigration, there has for many years been some
outflow of people, much of it being to join family members already
living in other countries, although some may be leaving because of
uncertainty about the future. The level of emigration is expected to
increase as a result of the more liberal policies being adopted by
the main resettlement countries in the granting of residence
permits. On the other hand a significant number of Hong Kong
residents who had emigrated in the past are returning to live and
work in Hong Kong because they prefer its life style and the opportunities which it offers.
75.
Her Majesty's Government remain firmly committed to the
territory of Hong Kong and to the well being of its people. They
will continue to fulfil their responsibilities for Hong Kong's sound
administration and to look after Hong Kong's interests internationally. They will work to ensure the smooth implementation
of the Sino-British Joint Declaration, to maintain confidence and to
preserve economic prosperity and social stability in the territory.
CONFIDENTIAL