HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL · - 11 January 1989
香港立法局 —————————一九八九年一月十一日
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practices" and "retaliation" as far as trade in goods is concerned. These practices refer basically to actions of governments rather than of individuals or firms. We are not aware of any such unfair practices in Hong Kong, but I can assure Mr. CHENG that it is our firm intention to continue to be the leading example of an open market observing GATT rules to the full.
Sir, I have referred to trade in goods. Trade in services is, of course, entirely different in nature. Since there is no relevant multilateral agreement in existence, there is as yet no accepted meaning of "unfair practices" in terms of services. However, Members may be aware that efforts are under way in the Uruguay Round to negotiate an agreement on services and we support these efforts. Finally, Sir, I might add that we have an excellent record in the services field.
MR. PAUL CHENG: Sir, it is certainly good to know that the Government supports the efforts currently under way in the Uruguay Round to work out an agreement on services. Will the Government advise the Council what specific areas constitute trade and services?
FINANCIAL SECRETARY: Sir, I would not attempt to advance a definition in this Council this afternoon. The definition of services is of course something that will be addressed in the Uruguay Round. As part of the on-going negotiations under the Uruguay Round, a negotiating group on services has been specifically formed with the objective of working out an agreement on trade and services. In the context of that negotiating group I think the answer to Mr. CHENG's question will be found.
MR. EDWARD HO: Sir, with respect to the Financial Secretary's reference to the Uruguay Round to negotiate an agreement on services and provided that it will have relevance to professional services, will the Financial Secretary inform this Council whether the Government will first consult relevant professional institutions, and whether the Secretary can give us the assurance that professional standards will not be prejudiced for the sake of providing an open market?
FINANCIAL SECRETARY: Yes, Sir, I think I can give the assurance that if there were any developments affecting particular professions in Hong Kong, we in the Administration would consult those professions. As far as standards are concerned, of course we are conscious of the need to preserve high standards in the professions in Hong Kong in the interests of the community.