TNAG-0642-FCO40-790-Kowloon-Walled-City-and-aircraft-safety-in-Hong-Kong-1977 — Page 27

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the C.P.G. having been warned in advance of the situation.

Prior notice

of the H.K.G. 's position and proposed course of action in the present

case will also have to be given to the C.P.G. through the N.C.N.A.,

particularly since occupied buildings a few years old are involved.

There is no reason to believe that the C.P.G. will oppose the enforcement

of international air safety conditions, provided it can be shown that

genuine efforts are being made to reduce any adverse effects to minimum.

Clear and re-assuring information will also have to be disseminated

generally within the Walled City to avoid unnecessary anxiety being

generated as a result of ignorance.

22.

Action to deal with overheight buildings in the Walled City

could attract widespread interest within Hong Kong and possibly overseas

and careful publicity will be required. Adverse reactions within Hong

Kong are unlikely, although there may be some criticism of the H.K.G. 's

generosity towards the owners of illegal buildings. However, it will

probably be generally accepted that the special problems of the Walled

City require special solutions. Stress could also be laid on the fact

that control has now been established to prevent further overheight buildings

being put up.

Organisation

23.

As indicated, a building height reduction exercise in the

Walled City will require in-depth liaison with those affected, full

assessment of property and other losses involved and careful direction

and implementation. The amount of work involved and the level of con-

tinuity and perseverance needed to carry the task through will justify the

establishment of a special unit suitably staffed for the purpose. Such

/a

CONFIDENTIAL

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