XN000022-1995-12-28 — Page 2

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Statement on establishment of the Preparatory Committee

Commenting on the establishment of the Preparatory Committee, a government spokesman today (Thursday) said: "We look forward to co-operating with the Preparatory Committee to work for a successful transition.

"The Preparatory Committee will play an important role in the establishment of the SAR Government. It is therefore in Hong Kong's interest that we should co- operate with it.

"We have made it clear that the Hong Kong Government will offer assistance to the Preparatory Committee to enable it to carry out its work.

"The co-operation we provide will be guided by the basic principles set out in the Governor's Policy Address to the Legislative Council last October, namely:

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The arrangements for co-operation are fully consistent with the Joint Declaration and the Basic Law and are in the interests of Hong Kong;

The authority and credibility of the Hong Kong Government are not compromised; and

The morale and confidence of the civil service are not affected and that civil servants are not subjected to conflicting loyalties."

The spokesman said: "A HK Government Liaison Office will be the focal point of contact for providing assistance to the Preparatory Committee. We look forward to regular contact between the PC Secretariat and our Liaison Office."

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