18 -
Following announcement of the Special 301 Report, we have registered our disappointment at the reference to Hong Kong under the 'other observations' section. We have explained to the US Administration the vigorous actions already undertaken, and will continue to be undertaken, by the Hong Kong Government on the legislative as well as enforcement fronts. The Governor has also underlined our total commitment to protecting intellectual property rights in Hong Kong to senior US Administration officials during his recent visit to Washington. The Chief Secretary intends to do likewise when she visits Washington next month.
We do not intend to approach other countries or territories mentioned under the 'other observations' section with a view to making a joint response. We see no benefit in doing so. We consider that a more productive and effective approach is to continue to pursue direct bilateral dialogue with the US Administration.
End
Disposal of relics illicitly imported from China
Following is a question by the Hon Elizabeth Wong Chien Chi-lien and a reply by the Secretary for Trade and Industry, Miss Denise Yue, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):
Question:
With regard to the seizure of relics imported into the territory from mainland China illicitly, will the Government inform this Council:
(a)
how it disposes of such relics; and
(b)
of the number of pieces which were returned to the Chinese Government in the past year, and the reasons therefor?