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Implementation of
The Sino-British Joint Declaration
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THE pattern of solid achievements which was built up in 1985 and 1986 implementing the terms of the Sino-British Joint Declaration on the Question of Hong Kong continued into the third year. This was a clear demonstration of the commitment by both the British and Chinese governments to translate into reality the promises made in the Joint Declaration, and to bring about a smooth transition from present day Hong Kong to a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China. Good progress in this most important task was possible because of the close co-operation and good relations established between the British and Chinese sides in the Joint Liaison Group and the Land Commission.
The Joint Liaison Group
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The Sino-British Joint Liaison Group (JLG) was established in accordance with the provisions of Annex II to the Joint Declaration. Its functions are to conduct consultations on the implementation of the Joint Declaration, to discuss matters relating to the smooth transfer of government in 1997, and to exchange information and conduct consultations on such subjects as may be agreed on by the two sides. As the JLG is an organ for liaison, and not an organ of power, it plays no part in the administration of Hong Kong.
The JLG comprises a senior representative and four other members on each side. Supporting staff and experts also attend meetings as appropriate. It meets in Peking, London and Hong Kong at least once each year. The first JLG meeting was held in London in July 1985, the second in Peking in November 1985, the third in Hong Kong in March 1986. The second cycle of meetings ended with the sixth meeting in Hong Kong in March 1987. The seventh meeting took place in July 1987 in London and the eighth was held in November in Peking. The JLG will continue to meet in these three locations until the year 2000. From July 1988, the JLG will have its principal base in Hong Kong.
Since its establishment, the JLG has built up a solid record of achievements in the implementation of the Joint Declaration. Its meetings are conducted in a friendly and co-operative atmosphere. A good working relationship has been established and mutual trust between the two sides is growing steadily. Building on the progress made in the first year and a half of its existence, the JLG has achieved positive results in a number of areas of major importance for the future of Hong Kong.
Hong Kong and the Customs Co-operation Council
The Joint Declaration provides for Hong Kong to remain a separate customs territory after June 30, 1997. As such a territory, it is important that Hong Kong is able to participate fully in the main international organisation dealing with customs matters, the Customs Co-operation Council (CCC). Hitherto, Hong Kong representatives had participated in the council as part of the United Kingdom delegation. To provide Hong Kong with a more.