TNAG-0520-FCO40-615-Visit-of-Lord-Goronwy-Roberts--Parliamentary-Under-Secretary-1987 — Page 77

Question:

Does the Minister consider an ombudsman would be

good for Hong Kong?

Suggested I think the role of an ombudsman is pretty well Answer:

fulfilled here by the UMELCO office, the Ward Offices

of the Urban Council and by the City District Offices.

All these organisations are well equipped to take up

complaints or grievances from the public and the system,

seems to be working pretty well. If they are not

adequately meeting requirements, and I have no reason

to suppose this is the case, they could be expanded to

do so.

Question: Would the Minister be prepared to comment on the

allegations being made by Mr. Hunt about corruption

in Hong Kong?

Suggested I realise how much interest these articles will arouse Answer:

both here and abroad and it is natural that you would

ask me for comments. But Hunt is a crown witness in an

important trial. You will understand that it would be

improper for me to comment on him or the articles

attributed to him.

4

Question: Does the Minister consider that the Queen's visit to

Hong Kong should be regarded as an indication of

improved relationship between Britain and China? Was

the visit cleared with China before it was arranged?

The Queen has wanted to visit Hong Kong for a long time

and is delighted that she will have the opportunity to do

so whilst she is on her way to Japan. I do not think

you should read any political significance into the

Royal Visit. If pressed 7 The Chinese authorities

Suggested Answer:

are well aware of the visit.

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