When will you be going out to Hong Kong?
I have not yet decided on a date, but I would expect to take up my post [in July].
How long will you be there for?
I expect to see the job through to July 1997 when China will resume sovereignty over Hong Kong.
Have you been to Hong Kong before?
Yes: as a back-bencher in 1979, and twice as Minister of Overseas Development during the 1980s.
Were the Chinese consulted on your appointment?
The appointment was made by the Queen on the advice of the
Prime Minister. The Chinese were informed of the
Government's decision.
Were ExCo consulted?
ExCo were informed of the decision before it was announced.
I very much look forward to meeting members of ExCo and to
working with them.
What is the role of the Governor?
The Governor represents the Queen in Hong Kong and is also
Commander-in-Chief of the British Garrison there. In
practice of course the Governor is Head of the Hong Kong
Government. I see my main role as protecting the interests of Hong Kong's people. That will require very close contacts with the Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary. It will also mean developing a good working relationship
with the People's Republic of China.
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