TNAG-1391-FCO40-1863-Future-of-Hong-Kong-briefing-for-meetings-and-visits-1985 — Page 32

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BRIEFING FOR THE PRIME MINISTER OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO'S CALL ON

LADY YOUNG

POINTS TO MAKE (IF HONG KONG IS RAISED)

The Agreement

1. The agreement is a formal and binding one. It has created a sound basis for Hong Kong's future stability and prosperity. The

agreement was ratified on 27 May and registered at the United

Nations on 12 June.

The Joint Liaison Group

2.

The Joint Liaison Group will meet for the first time in London

from 22

25 July. Five British members will include 2 Hong Kong

Government officials. Subjects to be discussed will include

maintenance of Hong Kong's position in the GATT and MFA after 1997.

The Land Commission

3. The Land Commission will meet for

for the first time in Hong Kong on

10 - 12 July. Commission will discuss future arrangements for

leases and other

other land matters in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Economy

4.

Successful conclusion of the negotiations has brought back

confidence to Hong Kong. Growth rate of 7% in GDP expected this year. Inflation rate is falling, dollar is stable, unemployment is

low and export performance remains good.

Development of Representative Government

is

5. In the aftermath of the agreement, representative government

being developed in Hong Kong. Measures include first (indirect)

elections to Hong Kong's Legislative Council in September.