TNAG-0734-FCO40-938-Reports-of-Standing-Committee-on-the-Planning-Progress-of-Ho-1978 — Page 75

CONFIDENTIAL

MINUTES OF THE FIFTH MEETING OF THE STANDING COMMITTEE TO MONITOR THE HONG KONG PLANNING PAPER HELD ON 23 FEBRUARY 1978

Present:

Mr Cortazzi Mr Murray

Mr Stewart

Mr Walsh

Mr Hull

Mr Thompson Mr Upton

Chairman

Head of Hong Kong & General Department

Deputy Overseas Labour Adviser

Economists Department

Hong Kong & General Department Hong Kong & General Department

ITEM 1: MATTERS ARISING FROM THE LAST MEETING

(a) 1978 Budget

After discussion it was agreed that the Governor should be asked to indicate, in his autumn policy speech, the approximate cost of proposed improvements in social services.

(b) Tax Reform

It was agreed that Mr Michael Stewart's proposed visit to Hong Kong would be of great importance.

(c) ILO Conventions

The meeting noted that Hong Kong had fulfilled its 1977 programme of ILO Conventions apart from two exceptions, which should be completed in 1978. Hong Kong had also made six improved declarations this year. Three further suggestions for post-1978 were agreed.

(a) DS Secondments

The meeting noted that agreement had been reached on terms of services for the proposed interchange of officers between Hong Kong and the Diplomatic Service; but progress still had to be made and the Governor's reply was awaited on the idea of a Chef du Cabinet.

(e) MFA

It was reported that reaction in Hong Kong was generally relaxed at the outcome of the MFA renegotiations. The agreement had not led to unemployment but could restrict

CONFIDENTIAL

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