CONFIDENTIAL
ARPAJA (2)
Background
1. A group of businessmen have proposed that the territory should
host a World Exhibition in 1997 which would span the transfer of
sovereignty. The idea has been widely publicised and has been favourably received in Hong Kong.
2.
Despite its obvious attractions, the practical and political
problems involved would be enormous. It is far from clear whether
the basic conditions (site, infrastrucutre) exist in Hong Kong for
it to host such an event, or whether the necessary finance would be
available. If the project is launched and then failed to gain
support, the effect on confidence would be the opposite of that
intended. The practicability of the idea is currently under
consideration in Hong Kong. No conclusions have been reached.
3. The Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) is aware of Hong Kong's potential interest, through informal contacts between
BIE officials and proponents of the idea in Hong Kong. It is therefore quite possible that the question may be raised at the BIE General Assembly meeting on 31 May (or more likely in the margins).
If the matter is raised at that meeting the UK representative need
do no more than confirm, as a matter of fact, that there is interest
in the idea in Hong Kong and that groups in Hong Kong are
considering the feasibility of a bid. (The 31 May meeting is in no
sense a deadline as bids do not have to be submitted until 6 years
before the event.)
4.
Given the coincidence between the Secretary of State's visit
and the BIE meeting there is likely to be particular press interest
in HMG's attitude to the possibility of Hong Kong hosting a World Exhibition. In responding to media questions it will be important not to imply any commitment to the idea, while at the same time avoiding the impression that HMG are seeking to "veto" it.
5.
We have spelt out to the Governor Ministers very strong reservations about the proposal, both on its own merits and for wider exhibition policy reasons. The Governor recognises these
CONFIDENTIAL