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Now with the keys presented, it is handed over to the expert
management of the Urban Council. We all wish them resounding success.
But this is no ordinary facility. It was built under the impetus
of the Royal Visit Commemoration Fund organised to commemorate The Queen's
visit in 1975. Some of the donors are seated behind me and I would like to
pay my tribute to their imagination and public spirit. The substantial sum
they raised was then supplemented by the Royal Visit Gold Coin Fund, and by
Government and Urban Council money to provide this building.
דיי
**
The visit of Her Majesty and Prince Philip was a notable event;
the first time in its history that Hong Kong played host to à reigning monarch.
It was a singularly happy occasion conducted with grace and goodwill.
In the City Hall Her Majesty reminded us of our ties with Britain,
of the harmony in which we live with the People's Republic of China, and urged
us to hold to our vision of both the prosperity and also the many-sided life
we are endeavouring to build by the solution of the problems that beset an
overcrowded city. These are the cornerstones of our existence, and it was
right that we should be reminded of them on that occasion.
It was in all respects a great visit, worthy of a lasting monument.
It is appropriate that this should be not an arch or a statue but this building,
in which over the years hundreds of thousands will find health, enjoyment, and
relief from the pressures of everyday life. In doing so let them also think
of the spirit of service and quiet confidence personified by The Queen the
public subscribed to honour in this way.
L