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citizenship without settlement in the UK is seen by China as unilaterally changing the nationality of Chinese nationals, ie an infringement of Chinese sovereignty. We do not accept
this. The Chinese Government have made a number of
statements, denouncing the scheme. Our aim is to dispel their suspicions. Differences between the two sides should be settled in private.
5.
The Hong Kong Government's proposals for a new port and airport and the road and rail links associated with it
represent the largest infrastructure project ever undertaken in Hong Kong. The cost is expected to be some £10 billion at current prices over the next 15 years. The Hong Kong Government intends to seek private sector participation for 40-60% of the total development. The remainder will be
financed by the Hong Kong Government. On 5 October the Hong
Kong Government announced that they would be taking over the financing of the Lantau Fixed Crossing, in the interests of speed and better value for money. The Chinese have on several occasions expressed concern that PADS might become a
financial burden on the future SAR Government. To reassure
them and to encourage Chinese participation in the project, the two sides will be holding expert discussions in Hong
Kong from 15-25 October.
Hong Kong Department
17 October 1990
CAMADH/4
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