XN000022-1995-05-10 — Page 25

-

2 -

we have requested access to detainees by their family members and their legal representatives; and

we have sought assurance that the welfare of the Hong Kong resident detained is looked after properly.

All these actions had been taken in accordance with the wishes of the family of the detainee and, in the case of Hong Kong residents having a foreign nationality, in close consultation with the government concerned.

We have well-established channels for raising cases of this kind with the Chinese authorities. Our representations are initially carried out in Hong Kong by the Political Adviser's Office with the New China News Agency in Hong Kong. Where appropriate, the British Government also raise the matter through the British Embassy in Peking. Particularly serious cases where the persons concerned had been detained for long periods have also been raised at ministerial level. Most recently the Secretary of State raised several specific cases with Vice-Premier Qian Qichen on 18 April this

year.

We are aware that these cases had given rise to widespread concern in the community, in particular among businessmen having or considering investment in China. We have therefore also drawn the attention of the Chinese authorities to these wider concerns. Other countries with a legitimate concern have also raised the question with the Chinese Government.

Mr President, unlawful detentions of visitors and businessmen, wherever they occur, in circumstances which give rise to doubts about commitment to the rule of law damage business confidence. Where they occur in China, international confidence in Hong Kong's future as a centre for doing business with China is also affected. Much of our success in the past had been built on the confidence on the rule of law, and the Government is determined to do everything to protect it.

Mr President, Ex Officio Members of this Council, we support the motion.

End/Wednesday, May 10, 1995