TNAG-2148-FCO40-3067-Communication-systems-allocation-of-call-signs-to-Hong-Kong-1990 — Page 60

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Reference

Action with the Chinese

5.

Hong Kong consider that the subject is too complex for an informal sounding out. They prefer to put a paper to the Chinese proposing Option I only, making clear that further work would be needed in London before we could discuss practicalities but asking for Chinese initial reactions.

6. The problem with their proposal is, of course, that we commit ourselves to one route. I would imagine that you and others would want to get clearance with the other DTS before we talk to the Chinese in those terms. I should be grateful for your views and also for advice whether, if we took the alternative approach of putting a balanced paper containing the Options I-III you would still, in any case, want to clear with DTS beforehand.

Number of Call Signs

7.

The

Hong Kong sent the attached list showing call signs currently allocated to Hong Kong, the capacity of each series and the number assigned as at 1 September 1989. list shows that over 400 call signs have been allocated to Hong Kong registered vessels and a further 1,820 to other users, including aircraft and amateur stations. As far as future requirements are concerned, Hong Kong advise that the "VR" and "VS" series would produce a capacity adequate for all ships on the Hong Kong register. The number of amateur stations is expected to rise to 3,000 over the next 15-20 years, but this should not present a problem. The existing capacity for aircraft should also be sufficient until 2047. However, Hong Kong do not say exactly what the anticipated capacity required in the foreseeable future is and I have asked them to clarify this point. (On the basis of the DTI estimate (Mr Kenyon's letter of 6 July 1989 to Mr Dart, SEND), one series could provide over 6,700 ship radiotelegraph-type call signs and thousands of ship radiotelephoning call signs. Clearly, if one series were adequate for Hong Kong's future needs it might be possible to arrive at a compromise option which would involve some disruption for Hong Kong and minimum disruption for other DTs).

8. I would be grateful for views in writing or by telephone as soon as possible after the Bank Holiday. In the interests of speed, I am copying this minute direct to DTI, who may want to give their comments direct or through you.

MUKAIR

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