TNAG-1599-FCO40-2192-Hong-Kong-1987-Review-of-Representative-Government-1987 — Page 24

IN CONFIDENCE

OV2/1278

CENTRAL OFFICE OF INFORMATION

Report on a visit by:

Mr Dick HO Ting-man

News Editor, Sing Tao Wan Pao

Mr LAI Ting-yiu

Feature Editor, Economic Journal

Mr Tavier LAU Chi-Kuen

Chief of Staff, South China Morning Post

Mr LEETai-on

Deputy Assistant Editor, Asia Television Limited

Mr Alego POON Wing-keung

Assistant Deputy News Editor, Sing Pao

HONG KONG

19 21 November 1987

GENERAL

Three days were spent in the north west visiting educational, business and cultural institutions in the British and Chinese communities. As a group the visitors were somewhat reserved in manner, particularly on the first full day of the tour. They were much more forthcoming on the second and third days, but even then did not appear to relax completely. They seemed determined not to be too impressed by anything they saw and were most relaxed during meals. Unfortunately the visitors left the London train at Stockport instead of Manchester Piccadilly and consequently failed to make contact with the escort until later in the evening, having gone straight out for a meal on arrival.

PROGRAMME

Salford University – (19 November)

The morning was spent at Salford University under the guidance of Mr Euan Beattie, the press officer, who outlined the history and composition of the University and made particular references to the financial constraints, suffered in 1981 which led to the University seeking a much higher proportion of its income from industry and commerce. This was followed by a tour of several departments dealing with such topics as consulting services, business enterprises, market research and scientific research. Over coffee there was a short meeting with a group of students from Hong Kong, although it has to be admitted that the conversation was somewhat desultory, three of the six students present spending most of their time talking to each other or the escort. Later in the morning there was a survey of the various kinds of degree courses offered by Salford University, largely related to Hong Kong, which sends a steady stream of students to the university. Throughout the morning the visitors' attitude was fairly passive, with only the occasional question.

Lunch was taken as guests of the University of Salford.

IN CONFIDENCE