TNAG-1821-FCO40-2584-Emigration-from-Hong-Kong-1988 — Page 117

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HUD 34115:

Private Secretary

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Secretary of State

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FROM: CO Hum

Hong Kong Department

DATE: 9 June 1988

CC:

Mr McLaren

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EMIGRATION FROM HONG KONG

Problem

1.

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factor is a confden indicator

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Mr William Purves, Chairman of the Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank, wrote to the Secretary of State during his recent visit to Hong Kong about emigration from the territory. How should he reply?

Recommendation

I recommend that the Secretary of State reply on the lines of

the attached draft.

2.

Background

3. Mr Purves' concern is undoubtedly representative of banks and other commercial institutions in Hong Kong. His warning about the longer term implications of present emigration trends must therefore be taken seriously. The recommended draft seeks to offer some reassurance while responding adequately to Mr Purves' concerns and avoiding the appearance of complacency.

4. The establishment of the Hong Kong Government task force on emigration was announced in May. It will make an inventory of data on emigration, consider how trends can be monitored, and examine possible measures to alleviate its effects, eg increased output of qualified local personnel and the creation of conditions designed to encourage emigrants to return.

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