TNAG-0517-FCO40-582-Meetings-of-Royal-Visits-Committee-affecting-Hong-Kong-1974 — Page 7

XCR(74)211

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The more difficult problem is to decide whether this display would give rise to irresistable pressure for a further relaxation of the ban. Because the occasion is unique, it is thought that it would be possible to resist agitation for further firework displays whether by left wing or other groups. However, it is suggested that if an announce - ment were made that other displays organised by the Government would be permitted in the future, (e. g. on the opening of each Hong Kong Festival and at Chinese New Year) it would become steadily more difficult to prevent a fairly general relaxation within quite a short time.

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It may be that Honourable Members would advise that there is no objection to a return to general freedom to use fireworks. How- ever, if this is not their view, it is suggested that a display on the occasion of the Royal Visit should be regarded as unique and no further exceptions to the ban permitted.

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A consideration to bear in mind is that if the Government gave way so far as to agree to the occasional licensing of firework displays by private bodies, this might be exploited for political purposes by left wing organisations.

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Whatever decision is taken, a clear statement of the Govern- ment's policy on fireworks for the future would have to be issued at the same time as the announcement is made that it is proposed to give a firework display during the Queen's visit.

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Honourable Members will be asked to advise:

(a)

Whether a firework display should be given during the Queen's visit;

(b)

whether this should be the only relaxation from the present ban;

(c)

if the answer to (b) is "No", what further displays should be permitted in the future.

5th December 1974

(CR 50/3371/67 II)

C.S. 84

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COUNCIL CHAMBER