TNAG-0245-FCO40-281-Exports-of-textiles-from-Hong-Kong-to-Sweden-1970 — Page 124

Revised draft statement

6/

Hong Kong's External Commercial Relations

(excluding Hong Kong/UK Trade)

It is agreed that Hong Kong's external commercial relations

should be conducted on the basis of the following understanding:

1. The constitutional position is that HMG are responsible

for the conduct of Hong Kong's external relations (including

commercial relations): it being understood that in keeping

with their obligations under the United Nations Charter this

responsibility is exercised for the purpose of protecting the

best interests of the people of Hong Kong and in the exercise

of this responsibility HMG will pay regard to the Hong Kong

Government's views as to where those best interests lie.

2. The Hong Kong Government will accordingly keep HMG informed

from the earliest practicable stage of developments in the field

of its external commercial relations.

Bilateral Discussions and Negotiations

3. Where HMG have not indicated that considerations of British

international commercial policy are involved the Hong Kong Government

is responsible for determining the course of and for the conduct

of Hong Kong's external commercial relations with such assistance

as it may be agreed can be furnished by HMG or HMG's overseas

representatives. The venue of such negotiations shall be a

matter for decision between the Hong Kong Government and any

third party.

4. Where HMG have indicated that considerations of British

international commercial policy are involved the Hong Kong Government

may nevertheless continue in full consultation and association

with HMG., to exercise a similar responsibility acting within

the framework of such policies as may be agreed with HMG and

/in conformity