the theoretical expiry or the lease on the low Territories in
1997.
15
The Hong Kong Government would be content to accept a proportion of their electricity supply from Guangdong, provided they do not become excessively dependent on China for such a vital resource. They are conducting a study to determine what proportion they could safely take. They also see some advantage in broadening the fuel base from which their electricity is produced. They are thus in principle sympathetic to the concept of a nuclear power station established in China on a joint venture basis supplying electricity to the territory, provided discussions do not end up by straining rather than improving political relations through uncertainty on the non-proliferation aspects.
16 The Hong Kong Government would require satisfactory agreements to be reached on security of electricity supply, tariff structure and safety and environmental issues. Electricity supply in Hong Kong is entirely in the hands of the private sector. The Hong Kong Government consider that they can adequately safeguard the interests of Hong Kong and also minimise any possible risk to Hong Kong/Guangdong relations by continuing to allow negotiations to be carried out by China Light and Power without direct Government involvement. Similarly, while they would like to see British equipment, they would prefer to leave the pursuit of this objective to China Light and Power. They are however keeping in close touch with China Light and Power about the negotiations.
UK INVOLVEMENT
Kuc
17 CLP and TAC have established an executive Working Group with four sub-committees to investigate and report on: the method of joint development and financial analysis; site investigation and selection; the selection of nuclear reactors, turbo-generators and consultants; and the design, development and operation of the power system. Ministers need to consider whether we should leave such discussions to CLP or seek to provide technical support and even direct representation.
CONIDIAL
-5-
}
F
Page 75Page 76
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.