C.
OTHER SUBJECTS
1.
2.
Nationality
Pleased that HMG could meet Hong Kong's request on new
endorsement on page 5 of BDTC passports.
New endorsement on back page purely factual. Do not foresee
this causing any problems for travellers. Of course is
difficulties do arise HMG will take them up with other
governments.
Vietnamese refugees
Hong Kong's record as place of first asylum second to none. Sympathetic with burden you have had to shoulder. Pleased new arrivals are down this year. Hope trend continues.
UK quota: HMG anxious to do all we can for Hong Kong but further
UK quota unlikely at present. Very few boat people wish to come
to UK: few historical or cultural ties.
3.
Guangdong Nuclear Power project
HMG attaches great importance to project. Valuable opportunity
to strengthen economic links between Hong Kong, China and UK.
But naturally important that Hong Kong Government looks
carefully at economics of project.
Safety: I know that Hong Kong Government are paying the closest
attention to the question of the safety of the proposed
station.
4.
5.
Capital punishment
Understand strength of local feeling on this. But no change in position since 1973. Only recently majority in Commons again reaffirmed opposition to capital punishment.
Democracy in Hong Kong
Public representation is maintained through a network of
councils, boards and committees. Pleased to note that District
Boards are working well. Recent appointments to EXCO and LEGCO demonstrate HKG's policy of widening representation on Councils.
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.