of some of Hong Kong's major trading partners. Similarly, through the Air Services separation process, we are seeking to ensure that Hong Kong's existing autonomy in aviation matters is clearly established before 1997. This is important for the preservation of Hong Kong's role as an important international civil aviation centre, and for the protection of the legitimate interests of Hong Kong airlines. Such autonomy is not of course inconsistent with the progressive introduction of more liberal civil aviation policies, which we are urging the Hong Kong authorities to adopt, and which would be in the wider interests of Hong Kong and the travelling public.
Britain's Commitment to Hong Kong
Despite the solid achievements we have made so far in securing a stable and prosperous future for Hong Kong, the local community remain, as ever, understandably unsure and nervous about their future and about Britain's continuing commitment to Hong Kong. Reassuring the local community that Britain is not ducking its
responsibilities, or seeking to disengage from Hong Kong as soon as is conveniently possible, will continue to be a major task in the run up to 1997. This will require tact and sensitivity in demonstrating that we understand the problems that matter most to the local community. will also require a readiness by HMG to play our full part, and to be seen to be doing so, in helping the Hong Kong authorities to tackle these problems.
Vietnamese Boat People
It
Since 1979, Hong Kong has given temporary asylum to over 130,000 Indo Chinese refugees, of whom well over