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10.
In the Chinese tradition, the evening of the second day was propitiously marked by a fireworks display over the fine harbour of Victoria, witnessed by Her Majesty and her guests from the Royal Yacht. A reception followed the State dinner in the Britannia, and the Royal Marines closed the programme by beating the Retreat, entertaining not only the reception guests, but also some 700 members of the public who were invited to HMS Tamar to witness the ceremony at Her Majesty's request.
11.
As in 1975, Prince Philip carried out an additional active programme of his own: visiting the World Wildlife Centre at Mai Po Marshes, now a staging post ofinternational importance for migrant birdlife and the Duke of Edinburgh's Training Camp in Lam Tsuen; opening the second generating station of China Light & Power Co Ltd at Castle Peak; and attending a parade of the 7th Duke of Edinburgh's Own Gurkha Rifles. He also gave a much appreciated reception on HMY Britannia for past members of the Duke of Edinburgh Study Conferences, Prince Philip Scholars to the University of Cambridge, Gold award winners of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Outward Bound School representatives and the Board of Governors of the Prince Philip Dental Hospital. These activities helped to spread the impact of the Royal visit widely.
12.
Coverage of the Royal visit by the Hong Kong media was prominent and extensive: on television and radio, in news reports and photographs, and through special supplements, many in colour, featuring the activities of the Royal visitors. Editorial comment highlighted the excellent state of Sino-British relations and recognised the visit as a demonstration of Her Majesty's Government's continuing commitment to Hong Kong and to the implementation of the Joint Declaration. Many newspapers expressed the hope that this would not be Her Majesty's last visit to Hong Kong.
13.
There can be no doubt that the Royal visit was a great success. It was clearly enjoyed by the people of Hong Kong. It demonstrated the continuing commitment of the United Kingdom to Hong Kong and its confidence in the future of the territory. It was of particular significance that it should be so successful, granted the inherent paradox of Hong Kong, a British Dependent Territory with a population of 98% Chinese, an international city with more American residents than British, and a territory now in transition to its new status under Chinese sovereignty.
14.
It is impossible to quantify the amount of work undertaken so cheerfully by Government departments, community organisations and others in preparation for and in the execution of the Royal visit. Many thousands of people were involved. It was a major commitment for the Royal Hong Kong Police Force. I would like to record my appreciation to all.
15.
Finally, I should like to record our debt to the Royal Household, in particular to the Advance Party under the leadership of Mr Robert Fellowes, Deputy Private Secretary to The Queen, for
/their advice
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