TNAG-0584-FCO40-717-Trade-relations-between-UK-and-Hong-Kong-(other-than-EEC)-1976 — Page 13

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Mr. Farr raised the point that some departments appeared

to order direct rather than working through the Government Supplies

Department, as exemplified by the Civil Aviation Department's tender

Weighing for baggage hen equipment. Members agreed that these also should

be included in the return.

14.

Mr. Farr also commented that in some cases, the time allowed for tendering was too short for overseas firms to respond. Members agreed the Chairman should take this point up with the

Central. Tender Board.

15.

On (b) information on new projects in the private sector and (c) a "Buy British" campaign, Mr. Kinnear, after commenting on the difficulties the Trade Commissioner experienced in getti information on new factories being set up (including those in industrial estates) and on factories retooling, asked whether the

Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Hong Kong Industries and the

Trade Development Council could pass to him any information that

came their way. He also suggested that the Chamber and Federation and perhaps the Chinese Manufacturers Asscciation might encourage their members to look first to British suppliers.

16.

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Mr. McGregor suggested that, as the representative of the

Confederation of British Industries, he could see whether the Chamber

would allow him to approach its members for assistance both in the

provision of information and to encourage them to look first to

British suppliers. If he was successful with the Chamber, he could

then perhaps approach the Federation.

17.

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Members agreed that, given the international nature of

Hong Kong's activities, it would not be appropriate for the Hong

Kong Government to approach the Chamber and the Federation to this

end. They agreed that Mr. McGregor should tackle the Chamber in the

manner he proposed. He should then report back to the Working Group before approaching the Federation. Members noted that the Chairman

of the Fodoration. had already accortod in principle the proposals to help promote trade with Britain.

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