SECRET
DRAFT
In rising to present this my first budget, I
wish to acknowledge the considerable debt that I owe my
predecessor, Sir John Bremridge. Through his efforts our
public finances are now in a strong position and we can
look forward with reasonable confidence to broadly
balanced budgets over the next few years. Our trading
position is excellent and our currency stable. We had
difficulties in the past, but we overcame them.
2.
The early nineteen eighties were not easy.
Hong Kong went through political uncertainties with all
the economic consequences. By taking the long term view
Sir John was able to achieve the adjustments required,
avoiding both draconian revenue measures and any major
disruption to services. Business went on, and that is
what any Financial Secretary must seek to ensure.
SECRET