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But I suggest that for tho e exporters for whou opportunities do exist in
Hong Kong, it is a market that merits high priority. It offers a n-tural
centre from which to exploit the expanding markets of East and South East Asia.
There is a further general point worth making to you about the
comparative advantages of Hong Kong as a market. Business can be done quickly
because Hong Kong businessmen are brisk -- it is a city in a hurry, business can
be done in English and when done it is governed by British law.
I have not liked to see the British share of the Hong Kong market
British support
decline and am delighted that the trend has at last reversed.
is as vital to Hong Kong as the goodwill of China on the one hand, and the
hard work, enterprise, and good government of the people of Hong Kong on the
other. British support is not an issue, but inevitably commercial success
and the employment it brings is helpful to British attitudes towards a place
so distant and so little understood. I therefore greatly welcome the interest
which the Department of Trade and Industry, the CBI and the British Overseas
Trade Board now take in the development of trade ith Hong Kong. Their success
would be in the mutual interest of both the United Kingdom and Hong Kong.
All who come to see the Hong Kong market will find a welcome,
most will find both profit and friendship, none will be disappointed by
a visit to a place with so much beauty, energy and promise.