CALENDAR OF EVENTS IN 1994
February
1
2
4
6
13
24
25
25
26
March
2
Hong Kong and China sign an agreement in Beijing to establish an air traffic control exchange training programme, to promote further co-operation and understanding between air traffic control staff and aviation authorities in the two territories.
Hong Kong and Denmark sign an investment promotion and protection agreement in Copenhagen.
The government accepts the recommendations of the Boundary and Election Commission for a total of 346 constituencies for the district board elections in September.
Hong Kong begins to receive electricity generated by the Guangdong Nuclear Power Station in Daya Bay, China.
The Governor begins his first official visit to Australia, during which he meets the Prime Minister, Mr Paul Keating.
The Electoral Provisions (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 2) Bill 1993 is passed in the Legislative Council. The Bill provides a 'single seat, single vote' system for all three tiers of geographical constituency elections; lowers the voting age from 21 to 18 years; abolishes appointed membership in the municipal councils and district boards; and relaxes existing restrictions on Hong Kong residents who are members of Chinese People's Congresses. The United Kingdom and Hong Kong Governments publish a White Paper giving a full account of talks with China on arrangements for the 1994-95 elections. The Chinese Government releases its own version of the talks on February 28.
The Finance Committee of the Legislative Council approves $4.8 billion to fund the construction of a major extension to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The government announces the setting up of a committee to review the powers and system of accountability of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC). On December 23, the committee publishes its report, recommending the retention of the ICAC's existing investigatory powers but greater accountability and transparency in its work.
The Financial Secretary, Sir Hamish Macleod, presents the 1994-95 budget, providing for greater spending on social welfare, health and education. At the same time, tax reduction measures will see 420 000 people drop out of the tax net altogether and a further 1.1 million people pay less tax.
Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal arrives in Hong Kong for a four-day visit.
6
2