TNAG-1310-FCO40-1667-Future-of-Hong-Kong-1984 — Page 208

HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL — 14 March 1984

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though we are not an independent state, we have in fact full autonomy as fo establishing overseas trade connections is concerned. Despite the fact that Hong Kong is not a formal member of G.A.T.T., we are represented at its meetings by a permanment local delegation. In other words, we have been able to enter into trade agreements directly with our trading partners and to present our case to international trade organizations in support of free trade.

As regards No. 2, the question is: How can we retain our own textile quota after 1997? The M.F.A., which regulates most of our textile and garment exports, has significant influence on Hong Kong. As we know our textile and garment industry produces more than 40% of our export and supplies 335 000 persons with jobs. Much as we dislike it, our textile and garment exports have experienced tremendous pressure from the protectionist attitude of our major importers. As a result, our textile and garment exports are subject to strict quota control. But behind all these difficulties we have a quota of our own, and not without long hard battles we have been able to resist serious cutbacks in the quota limit.

As regards the third matter let me say that today, the 'Made in Hong Kong' label attached to our goods has been accepted by overseas consumers as a symbol of quality. It is the result of many years' hard work by our manufacturers and trade promoters. How can we retain this quality symbol after 1997?

Sir, these three questions call for immediate and positive answers.

I am glad that both the British and Chinese Governments have realized that the future of Hong Kong is not only a political, social and legal matter, for they have stated that the mutual objective of the talks are the twin goals of stability and prosperity. These Siamese twins are joined together in all the essential places. They are our prime necessities. Stability we pray for because, without a stable Hong Kong, prosperity is not possible. Prosperity we hope for, because without prosperity we do not have the means to enjoy stability. This is what we the people of Hong Kong want, as indeed do all parties to the present discussion. To this end we anticipate a constructive continuation of the good relations between the major parties to the discussions as well as to ourselves, the people of Hong Kong. We want to help, fully aware as we are of Chinese sensitivities on the matter, and this Council has a voice and here I speak for trade and industry which I am sure should be heard.

Shakespeare said 'There is a tide in the affairs of men, which, taken at flood, leads on to fortune.' This is the time when the tides are flowing in the right direction. We hope that the two negotiating teams will take this opportunity to provide us with the assurances we need to prosper in a stable society.

Sir, with these remarks, I support the motion.