Geneva.
to allow the Hong Kong authorities to exercise now the
high degree of autonomy that Hong Kong is to enjoy after
1997. The Hong Kong Government manages most of its
internal affairs by itself, while keeping HMG generally
informed. Hong Kong also exercises full autonomy in
external trade matters and, as a separate contracting
party to the GATT, has its own representation the GATT in
There are plans for similar representation to
the EC. We are also encouraging the establishment of
free standing Economic and Trade Offices in the capitals
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 autonomy in
aviation matters is a well established fact 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 interests of Hong Kong
airlines.
BRITAIN'S COMMITMENT TO HONG KONG
15.
Despite the solid achievements we have made so far
in securing a stable and prosperous future for Hong Kong,
the local community remain 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
conveniently possible, will be a major task in the run up
to 1997. This will require tact and sensitivity in
as is