03-SEP-1991 07:09
JAMES LEE
PREMIER LI PENG/PRIME MINISTER MAJOR
UNDERSTANDING PEKING
PRIME MINISTER JOHN MAJOR:
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MEMORANDUM of
3 SEP 91
P.05
Mr. Premier:
We have been able to discuss many matters last evening and this
morning but on this occasion we are here to sign a vitally
important document. This Memorandum of Understanding provides a
firm basis for building a modern airport to meet the expanding
needs of Hong Kong; it is the fruit of arduous negotiations; it
meets the principal concerns of all parties; on its initialling
and publication two months ago, it was widely welcomed in Hong
Kong and internationally.
The airport at Chek Lap Kok together with its supporting
infrastructure is a massive project. I am delighted that we have
with us today the Governor of Hong Kong and some of the senior
members of the Hong Kong Government; it is they who have the
overall responsibility for it. Work will now forge ahead. The
first main call for tenders has already been issued; all such
tenders will be open to international competition. I know that
Hong Kong's overriding concerns in the interests of Hong Kong
taxpayers are cost efficiency and reliability; I know, too, that
some first-class and experienced British companies are showing
keen interest; I very much hope that they will be able to meet
Hong Kong's criteria and be able to make a substantial
contribution.
I am glad to hear that Chinese enterprises are also
closely interested.