53
helpful to Hong Kong both now and after 1997. An increase
exchange of information in this way should not be
in the
So.
seen as giving the Chinese Government a veto over decisions
which are properly for the Hong Kong Government to take.
They have not sought this; nor would I expect them to do
The extensive autonomy in many fields which Hong Kong
now enjoys is of long standing. Its continuation after 1997
is guaranteed in the Joint Declaration and provided for in
Meanwhile, the Chinese Government has
undertaken in the Joint Declaration to give its co-operation
the Basic Law.
few
to Britain in the administration of Hong Kong up to the
transfer of sovereignty in 1997. It is in this context that
years we aim to improve consultation,
ach..eve а greater exchange of information and build up
better understanding on both sides.
over the next
99.
We already have extensive contacts with the Chinese
authorities
cross-border
immigration,
mean that
a
frequent
relatively
over 60
at the working level on specific matters such as
traffic, control of
pollution
smuggling and illegal
control and health. These exchanges
significant number of Hong Kong officials have
contact with their Chinese counterparts.
This is a
new but important development. So far this year,
official visits have been made by Hong Kong civil
/servants
No comments yet.
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