TNAG-1748-FCO40-2467-Visit-by-Sir-Geoffrey-Howe--Secretary-of-State-for-Foreign-a-1988 — Page 134

CONFIDENTIAL

ARPAJA (2)

Background

1. A group of businessmen have proposed that the territory should

host a World Exhibition in 1997 which would span the transfer of

sovereignty. The idea has been widely publicised and has been favourably received in Hong Kong.

2.

Despite its obvious attractions, the practical and political

problems involved would be enormous. It is far from clear whether

the basic conditions (site, infrastrucutre) exist in Hong Kong for

it to host such an event, or whether the necessary finance would be

available. If the project is launched and then failed to gain

support, the effect on confidence would be the opposite of that

intended. The practicability of the idea is currently under

consideration in Hong Kong. No conclusions have been reached.

3. The Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) is aware of Hong Kong's potential interest, through informal contacts between

BIE officials and proponents of the idea in Hong Kong. It is therefore quite possible that the question may be raised at the BIE General Assembly meeting on 31 May (or more likely in the margins).

If the matter is raised at that meeting the UK representative need

do no more than confirm, as a matter of fact, that there is interest

in the idea in Hong Kong and that groups in Hong Kong are

considering the feasibility of a bid. (The 31 May meeting is in no

sense a deadline as bids do not have to be submitted until 6 years

before the event.)

4.

Given the coincidence between the Secretary of State's visit

and the BIE meeting there is likely to be particular press interest

in HMG's attitude to the possibility of Hong Kong hosting a World Exhibition. In responding to media questions it will be important not to imply any commitment to the idea, while at the same time avoiding the impression that HMG are seeking to "veto" it.

5.

We have spelt out to the Governor Ministers very strong reservations about the proposal, both on its own merits and for wider exhibition policy reasons. The Governor recognises these

CONFIDENTIAL