XN000022-1995-10-11 — Page 56

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"We are almost halfway through our programme to replace United Kingdom statutes that at present apply to Hong Kong with appropriate Hong Kong legislation. We still have to enact a further 17 ordinances to complete the current programme.

"We also have a programme, largely technical, to adapt Hong Kong's laws to meet the requirements of our future status as a Special Administrative Region. We have examined all the Hong Kong Ordinances, numbering nearly 600, to see whether they need amendment to conform to the Basic Law."

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So far, he said, detailed proposals had been presented for amending about 300 ordinances and the government aimed to complete proposals on the rest by the beginning of next year.

"It is imperative to ensure that there is no uncertainty about the status of any laws after the change of sovereignty," Mr Patten said.

On other matters, the Hong Kong Government would seek to build on last week's agreement in London between the British and Chinese Foreign Ministers to intensify efforts to develop Hong Kong's container port.

Air links provided a further example, said Mr Patten.

"We have been negotiating a distinct set of air services agreements with our aviation partners," he said.

"This involves separating air services agreements from those signed by the United Kingdom which also cover Hong Kong, and concluding agreements with new aviation partners."

Mr Patten said 11 such agreements had been signed, one had been initialled and awaited formal signature, and six more were waiting for the Chinese side's approval. A further four remained to be dealt with under the separation programme.

"We have also embarked on a new agenda of consultation and co-operation with China no less vital to our future prosperity," Mr Patten said.

"We have started a comprehensive series of briefings on our budgetary process. These are creating a solid foundation for the consultations with the Chinese Government which will be necessary for the special case of the 1997-98 Budget.

"We have set up a joint Infrastructure Co-ordinating Committee. This body has strengthened our cross-border co-operation, in particular on infrastructure and related matters.