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7.
Do you encourage Hong Kong businesspeople to invest in Britain?
We often tell companies who seem capable of expansion (or who approach us) that Britain is a good base from which to tackle Europe. Some come to the Trade Commission and some we single out. We do it on an individual basis.
8. Why not take a more public stand on this?
Frankly we would not want anyone to form the impression that we were trying to encourage a wholesale transfer of resources out of Hong Kong. We are interested in investment for sound commercial reasons and we are able to advise people on the opportunities in Britain. There are a number of regional investment organisations represented in Hong Kong and we work with them on some cases where they can use our assistance.
9.
What arrangements are being made for accomodation for the new Consulate General after 1997?
At present the FCO own no property in Hong Kong. This office is leased and we have another two floors rented in the St John's Building for the Joint Liaison Group. The British Council who may wish to share accommodation with us after 1997 have their own rented offices in Wanchai. A number of options are being considered for the post-1997
accommodation.
10. The Foreign Secretary said in his evidence that the FCO were already planning for a well-located, proper, Consulate General building after 1997 but we have also been briefed that given the booming property market, "the costs of a new building threaten to be well beyond our means". comment on that?
Would you
The
It is clear there will have to be a largish Post here after 1997. question is how best to accommodate it. Given the expense involved, perhaps its not surprising that the list of options should begin with the least expensive and that prudent officials should war that the most expensive solution could be beyond the Department's means (in other words, the regular budget).
11. Is it possible that the Hong Kong Government will give the British Government a site?
This is a delicate question and you might wish to pursue it suggest, informally with the Governor.
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12. Does the UK Government own your residence ?
akad
if I may
No, my house is leased but we have been looking out for a suitable residence to buy. My successor will continue the search and I hope he will be able to find the right property. Ideally it will eventually be the future Consul General's residence.
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