TNAG-1598-FCO40-2191-Hong-Kong-1987-Review-of-Representative-Government-1987 — Page 68

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introduction of direct

elections in 1988.

This was not

accurately presented in the report, however, and the delegation

is gravely concerned by the manner in which the Hong Kong

administration has thus misrepresented the views of Hong Kong

people.

professionals

The distressing prospect of an ever weakening administration is

causing tens of thousands of

to leave the

terrority. Statistics obtained from foreign consulates and

commissions in Hong Kong show that large numbers of

professionals and their families have emigrated and many more

are planning to do the same. Emigration of Hong Kong people to

Canada, for example, rose 86% in 1986, while in the first nine

months of 1987, the growth rate jumped to 149% year-on-year.

In the case of Australia, another popular destination for Hong

Kong emigrants, visa applications increased by 78% in 1985-1986

and 67.2% in 1986-1987.

Unless the "brain drain" is arrested, it will be impossible for

Hong Kong to continue functioning as an international financial

and trade centre.

The confidence crisis is

is also reflected in the most recent

public opinion survey which shows a dramatic shift

shift of views

regarding the viability of the 1984 Sino-British Joint

Declaration. The survey, carried out in July 1987, shows that

72% of Hong Kong people no longer have confidence in the Joint