TNAG-1839-FCO40-2614-House-of-Commons-Select-Committee-on-Foreign-Affairs-enquiry-1989 — Page 41

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vi) Agreement on the principles for the conclusion of separate Air Service Agreements between Hong Kong and its aviation partners, which are capable of remaining in force after 1997. The first such Air Service Agreement was signed between the Government of Hong Kong and the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in The Hague on 17 September 1986. Subsequently, agreements have been signed with Switzerland, Canada and Brunei. Negotiations with other partners

continue.

vii)

Agreement on the introduction of a new pension scheme for civil servants in Hong Kong.

viii)

Agreement that Hong Kong should become a separate member of the Customs Co-Operation Council (CCC) and should continue as such after 1997 in the name of "Hong Kong, China". Hong Kong was duly accepted as the 99th member of the CCC on 25 June 1987. As a result of the JLG's efforts Hong Kong has, and will retain after 1997, a separate standing in relation to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, the Multi-Fibre Arrangements and the Ccc. It is thus better placed to protect its own interests in world trade before and after 1997.

ix)

Good progress in discussions on the important subject of the defence of Hong Kong and the maintenance of its public order. The two sides agreed in principle that the Hong Kong Police Force should undergo appropriate expansion to enable it to discharge its responsibility for maintenance of public order before and after 1997. The existing Auxiliary Air Force will be reorganised to form a civil Gvoernment Flying Services Department, with responsibility, for providing the Hong Kong Government with necessary flying services. The Chinese side have also expressed understanding of provisional plans for the withdrawal of the British Garrison fro Hong Kong, which have been outlines by the British side. Her Majesty's Government's primary objective in this crucial and

nsitive area is to ensure that Hong Kong's security and stab is maintained throughout the period up to 1997, and that suitable arrangements are made for defence and public order thereafter on basis of the provisions in the Joint Declaration.

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