•
SECRETARY OF STATE'S MEETING WITH JANE'S DEFENCE WEEKLY,
24 JUNE
HONG KONG
We remain committed to good cooperation with China on the basis of the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration. Aim remains a successful transition to Chinese sovereignty in 1997. There has been no change in our policy on this.
Pleased that we have at last been able to hold talks with the Chinese on the electoral arrangements for the 1994/95 elections.
- Our aim in these talks is to reach an understanding with China on arrangements that ensure the elections in 1994 and 1995 are fair, open and acceptable to the people of Hong Kong.
If we do reach an understanding, we and the Governor will recommend the outcome to the Legislative Council. It will be for them to pass the necessary legislation.
-
But we cannot allow talks to drag on indefinitely because practical arrangements for orderly elections need to be made.
New Airport
- All agree that Hong Kong needs a new airport if it is to remain an international trade and financial centre.
- Have done our best to take account of Chinese problems with financing arrangements.
Believe that agreement could be reached quickly if financing issues tackled on their merits.
Welcome recent signs that Chinese are taking a more constructive approach.
Economy
Economic fundamentals in Hong Kong remain very strong.
Probably sounder than in any other community in the world. GDP grew by 5% in 1992, and is expected to remain in the range of 5-5.5% in 1993. Trade with China continues to boom. Investment
I will be sustained by Government infrastructure projects.
Future of the Hong Kong Garrison (Defensive)
- The level of the British military presence in Hong Kong is something which is kept under review.
jdw.BACKBRIEF.JRB