These moves intensify the problems throughout the business organisation and cause major disruptions. Our growth in the Asian region, which is fundamental to THORN EMI's global strategies (and hence of major importance to the UK economy) is based on our headquarters in Hong Kong. As you would expect, in the late 80s it is also based on using local national management.
Settling this uncertainty is of major importance, and we in the UK have a responsibility to help to secure the future for the people of Hong Kong. This responsibility extends beyond those in local government and encompasses business leadership in the area as a minimum.
Au carly announcement, and abono all a generous allocation of UK passports and citizenships. is paramount in fulfilling these responsibilities. On behalf of our entire Advisory Board for the region and my colleagues on the UK main Board, I would urge you to persuade the government both to act and be generous in meeting its responsibilities. The effect on British standing and the success of our business enterprises in the whole region will be positively influenced by this decision, not only in Hong Kong but as I said earlier, throughout the entire Asian region, which as you will know is the fastest business growth area in the world today.
Yours sincerely
COLIN G SOUTHGATE
cc: The Rt Hon David Waddington MP, Secretary of State, Home
Office
The Rt Hon Nicholas Ridley MP, Secretary of State, Department of Trade and Industry